Safeguarding the Digital Well-being of Assam’s Tea Tribe and Adivasi Communities

By Digital Empowerment Foundation

Published on: October 11, 2023

“Project Internet Roshni and NIELIT’s cybersecurity awareness camp transformed SoochnaPreneurs into digital guardians, ensuring the safety and empowerment of Assam’s Tea Tribe and Adivasi communities.”

The Internet Roshni Project, has been a hope for the Tea Tribe and Adivasi communities in the remote districts of Jorhat, Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Hailakandi, and Cachar in Assam. This initiative, with its dedicated SoochnaPreneurs, has not only illuminated the lives of these communities but has also fortified them with digital empowerment.

In these far-flung regions of Assam, access to digital resources and the internet was once a distant dream. But with the tireless efforts of Internet Roshni, this dream has transformed into a reality. SoochnaPreneurs, local heroes of the community, have been serving as the bridge between the digital world and the Tea Tribe and Adivasi communities.

However, recognising the importance of staying ahead of emerging challenges, Internet Roshni, in collaboration with National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), Dibrugarh campus, under Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India, took a significant step forward. They organised a one-day awareness camp on “CYBER SECURITY AND EMERGING THREATS” for the SoochnaPreneurs and volunteers.

This event was pivotal in equipping these dedicated individuals with the knowledge and tools to navigate the increasingly complex world of cyber threats. As these SoochnaPreneurs are at the forefront of delivering digital services and addressing the digital needs of their communities, understanding cybersecurity is vital not only for their own safety but also for safeguarding the privacy, sensitive data and information of the Tea Tribe and Adivasi communities.

During the awareness camp, they were introduced to various aspects of cyber security, including threat detection, prevention, and response. They learned about the importance of secure online practices, protecting personal and sensitive information, and staying vigilant against cyberattacks. Moreover, they were educated on the critical role they play in ensuring the digital safety and privacy of their community members.

The SoochnaPreneurs, now armed with knowledge about cyber security, have become not just digital service providers but also guardians of online safety for their communities. They are better equipped to tackle emerging threats and protect the digital well-being of the Tea Tribe and Adivasi communities they serve.

Internet Roshni’s commitment to empowering these communities goes beyond just providing internet access; it extends to nurturing a safer digital environment. Through their partnership with NIELIT and their focus on cyber security awareness, they have demonstrated that true empowerment includes the ability to navigate and thrive in the digital age securely.