Recently, Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Hyderabad, a scientific society functioning under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), along with Reliance Foundation, launched the e-SafeHER Initiative.
The initiative has been introduced to strengthen cybersecurity awareness among women in rural India, especially at a time when digital platforms are increasingly being used for financial transactions, livelihoods, education, and access to essential services.
About e-SafeHER Initiative
The e-SafeHER Initiative is a cyber-security awareness and training programme designed to empower women across rural India with essential digital safety skills.
The programme aims to create awareness about:
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Cyber frauds
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Online scams
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Digital privacy
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Safe online financial practices
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Cyber hygiene and responsible internet usage
Objectives of the Initiative
The major objective of the programme is to strengthen last-mile cybersecurity awareness among women in villages and remote regions.
The initiative seeks to:
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Build confidence among women in using digital platforms safely
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Protect rural users from cyber fraud and financial scams
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Promote secure digital participation
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Create digitally aware rural communities
It also aims to develop women as “Cyber Sakhis”, who can further spread awareness within their local communities.
Target and Duration
Under this initiative, the government aims to empower one million women, referred to as Cyber Sakhis, across rural India over the next three years.
These trained women will act as local digital safety ambassadors and help educate others about cyber security practices.
Implementation Strategy
The implementation of the programme will involve collaboration between C-DAC and Reliance Foundation.
Role of C-DAC
Centre for Development of Advanced Computing will:
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Develop cybersecurity training modules
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Localize content in regional languages
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Continuously update awareness material under the ISEA Project
Role of Reliance Foundation
Reliance Foundation will use its strong grassroots network and women empowerment platforms in rural India to deliver the programme through a peer-led and community-based model.
States Covered Initially
The initiative will first be launched in:
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Madhya Pradesh
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Odisha
After the initial phase, the programme will be expanded gradually across the country.
About Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA)
The e-SafeHER Initiative is being implemented under the Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) Programme of MeitY.
The ISEA programme is an initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology aimed at promoting cybersecurity education and awareness in India.
Key Facts about ISEA Programme
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The programme was launched in 2005.
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It is currently operating in its third phase, which began in October 2023.
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The programme focuses on generating human resources in information security.
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It also spreads awareness regarding cyber hygiene and cyber security among the general public.