On Day-10 of the celebration, the expert team from the ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management (IIWM) conducted an awareness training program on “Digital Inclusion and Sustainable Development” under the "Janjatiyan Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada 2025" in the Akanksha SC ST - Urban Hostel, Pokhariput, Bhubaneswar, Khorda District, Odisha. The objective was to empower tribal communities through enhanced digital awareness and improved access to digital opportunities. The program aligned with the national initiative to honor the legacy, contributions, and cultural heritage of India’s tribal freedom fighters while promoting inclusive growth in present-day development efforts. The session introduced participants to basic and applied digital skills, such as operating smartphones, accessing government portals and welfare schemes, using digital payment methods (UPI and Aadhaar-linked transactions), and navigating online platforms for agriculture advisories, weather information, and market linkages. The program also highlighted how digital platforms can minimize transaction delays, reduce dependency on intermediaries, and ensure transparency in accessing government benefits. Special focus was given to the use of digital tools for e-learning opportunities for tribal youth and online health services, particularly teleconsultation, for remote communities. Participants shared their challenges regarding digital access, internet connectivity, and device availability, and were encouraged to leverage community digital resource centers, where available. Overall, the program strengthened awareness on how digital empowerment can improve livelihoods, enhance access to public services, and enable informed decision-making. By integrating digital inclusion with sustainable development, the initiative reaffirmed India’s commitment to ensuring that technological progress benefits every segment of society, especially tribal communities. A total of 51 girl students were present in this awareness program.
