Kerala has set a national benchmark by becoming the first state in India where every citizen is digitally literate, completing the opening phase of its Digi Kerala programme. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan declared the milestone after statewide surveys and training drives.
The initiative reached 1.5 crore residents from 83.46 lakh households, identifying 21.88 lakh individuals without digital skills. Out of these, an impressive 21.87 lakh people (99.98%) underwent training and cleared assessments, ensuring that the benefits touched every segment of society.
From youth to senior citizens, including 104-year-old M.A. Abdullah Moulavi Baqavi of Ernakulam, the programme embraced inclusivity. Training was delivered through Kerala’s strong network of local bodies, making it accessible and community-driven.
Equipped with digital literacy, people can now directly avail government schemes like Ayushman Bharat, PM-Kisan, and Jan Dhan, reducing dependence on intermediaries and expanding financial inclusion. The initiative particularly benefits women, elderly, and marginalised groups.
With the new skills, citizens are empowered to file grievances, submit RTI applications, and participate in online governance platforms, reinforcing transparency, accountability, and participatory democracy.
Unlike programmes that focus mainly on digital infrastructure, Digi Kerala prioritised grassroots training, offering a scalable model that aligns with the Digital India Mission and can guide other states.
Digital literacy is fostering entrepreneurship, self-help group activities, and livelihood opportunities, contributing to inclusive economic development. It also enhances Kerala’s ability to respond to crises like pandemics and natural disasters through universal access to online services and education
