New Delhi: The e-SafeHER launch was announced by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), C-DAC Hyderabad and Reliance Foundation to train one million rural women in cyber safety over three years.
The programme will build a network of “Cyber Sakhis” to help women safely use digital platforms. It will focus on financial transactions, livelihoods and access to services. The initiative is anchored under MeitY’s Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) programme.
C-DAC Hyderabad will develop and localise training content. It will also update modules in multiple languages. Meanwhile, Reliance Foundation will lead grassroots delivery through women’s Self-Help Groups. This model will rely on peer learning and community engagement.
MeitY Secretary S Krishnan said the initiative aligns with the government’s goal of a Cyber Secure Bharat. He added that the programme will empower women in remote regions to stay safe online. He also noted that the model can scale through partnerships.
Reliance Foundation Director Isha Ambani said rural women are coming online faster than before. She stated that the initiative will help them build skills for safe digital use. She added that the goal is to create one million Cyber Sakhis by 2029.
e-SafeHER launch rollout begins in two states
The programme will start with training in Madhya Pradesh and Odisha. It will then expand nationwide through phased implementation. The initiative integrates cyber awareness into existing digital literacy programmes. This approach avoids the need for new infrastructure.
It will use audio-visual tools and blended learning methods. These tools aim to improve accessibility and engagement. The programme also targets measurable outcomes. These include better awareness of cyber risks and safer online behaviour.
Officials said insights from the rollout will support policy integration. The long-term aim is to create a sustainable, community-led model. The e-SafeHER launch combines MeitY’s framework, C-DAC’s expertise and Reliance Foundation’s outreach to ensure both digital access and security for rural women.
