Expanding Internet Roshni (Light) for the vulnerable tea tribe & Adivasi Community in Assam and West Bengal in India

OBJECTIVE OF THE PROJECT 

This project seeks to bridge the digital divide for the Tea Tribe and Adivasi communities residing in remote tea gardens across Assam and West Bengal, the two leading tea-producing states in India. It aims to achieve this by expanding the successful “Internet Roshni (Light)” model. This model establishes public Wi-Fi hotspots and “Community Internet Libraries” in these areas, empowering adolescents, youth, and particularly women through access to critical information, resources, skills, and opportunities. The project leverages the Government of India’s PM WANI scheme to extend Wi-Fi reach and create a network of young women (“Soochnapreneurs”) who will manage the Internet access points and provide digital literacy training within each tea garden community. 

WHY IS THIS PROJECT IMPORTANT? 

By bringing Internet connectivity directly to geographically isolated communities, the project opens doors to education, healthcare information, and economic opportunities that were previously unavailable. Secondly, the project focuses on empowering marginalized groups, particularly women and youth. By equipping them with digital skills and knowledge, the project allows them to navigate the online world safely and productively, leading to improved livelihoods and greater participation in society. Finally, the project utilizes a sustainable and community-driven approach. The “Internet Roshni” model relies on low-cost infrastructure and leverages existing government initiatives. Additionally, by training community members as Soochnapreneurs, the project ensures long-term sustainability and local ownership.