Free Smartphone Yoajan: In a landmark move to bridge the digital gender gap, the Rajasthan government has revived its ambitious Indira Gandhi Free Mobile Yojana – a flagship initiative offering free smartphones with 3 years of complimentary internet to 1.35 crore women across the state. Originally launched in August 2023 but paused during elections, this scheme is now gearing up for a grand relaunch, with 40 lakh devices already distributed and over 95 lakh beneficiaries eagerly awaiting their turn.
Key Features of the Rajasthan Free Smartphone Scheme
The program targets women from low-income households, students, and rural communities, focusing on digital literacy and access to government services. Here’s what beneficiaries get:
- Free 4G smartphone pre-loaded with apps for Rajasthan’s key schemes (Chiranjeevi Health, Bhamashah Yojana, etc.).
- 3 years of free internet (GB limit to be announced post-relaunch).
- Priority for girls in classes 9–12 to support online education.
Who is Eligible?
| Category | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| General Women | Permanent Rajasthan residents linked to Chiranjeevi Scheme; no existing smartphone. |
| Students | Girls studying in classes 9–12 in govt/recognized schools. |
| Rural Beneficiaries | Women who completed 100 days under MGNREGA in last 2 years. |
Note: Only one woman per family can apply. Aadhaar-linked mobile numbers are mandatory.
How to Apply?
Unlike most digital schemes, the Indira Gandhi Free Mobile Yojana follows an offline camp-based registration process:
- Step 1: Attend camps organized at your local gram panchayat or urban body office (dates announced via SMS/noticeboards).
- Step 2: Submit documents (Aadhaar, school ID for students, MGNREGA job card if applicable).
- Step 3: Receive SMS confirmation with smartphone collection details.
Pro Tip: Follow the Rajasthan Jan Aadhaar portal for real-time camp updates to avoid last-minute rushes.
Required Documents
- Aadhaar card (linked to Chiranjeevi Scheme)
- Proof of residence (ration card/voter ID)
- School ID (for students)
- MGNREGA job card (if applying under rural category)
Why This Scheme Matters
With only 32% of rural Rajasthan women owning smartphones (NSSO 2023), this initiative could revolutionize access to:
- Healthcare: Telemedicine via Chiranjeevi app.
- Education: Online classes for girl students.
- Financial Inclusion: Direct benefit transfers & Bhamashah Yojana access.
Quote: “This isn’t just a phone – it’s a gateway to rights and opportunities,” says Rajasthan Women Commission Chairperson Rekha Sharma.
Current Status & Challenges
While 40 lakh smartphones were distributed before the 2023 election hiatus, delays in relaunching have sparked concerns. Tech analysts also question:
- Will the devices have enough storage for govt apps?
- How will internet data limits be managed?
The CM’s office confirms a September 2024 relaunch with upgraded handsets. A dedicated grievance portal (rajmobileyojana.rajasthan.gov.in) will go live next month.
What’s Next?
Keep your documents ready and watch for camp announcements! With 95 lakh pending applications, early registration is key. For urban applicants, Jaipur and Jodhpur will host mega camps first.
