RuTAG Smart Village Center

• 18 Feb 2025

Why in News? 

Recently, the Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAG) Smart Village Center (RSVC) was launched in Mandaura village of Sonipat, Haryana. 

 Key Points 

• About RSVC: 
  • The RuTAG Smart Village Center (RSVC) aims to introduce innovative solutions to solve everyday challenges in rural areas, such as preventing animal intrusion, promoting organic farming, and supporting small businesses like bakery production. 
  • The center will benefit farmers, artisans, and rural entrepreneurs by providing technology solutions directly to their doorsteps. 
• Technological Solutions: 
  • Developed under the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser, RSVC will introduce technologies like satellite data for farming, water monitoring kits, solar power, Internet of Things applications, and organic fertilizers. 
  • The initiative also includes assistive technologies for differently-abled individuals and financial inclusion apps, ensuring access to modern advancements for everyone. 
  • It will address rural challenges with improved agricultural practices, waste management, renewable energy solutions, and affordable housing innovations. 
  • Farmers will benefit from advanced post-harvest technologies, and the center will provide information on government welfare schemes through citizen-centric apps. 
  • This initiative will also enhance income for local artisans and farmers by improving market access. 
• The center will collaborate with institutions like IIT Madras, and the Assistive Technology Foundation to provide practical solutions and training in various skills, including bakery, bread-making, and financial literacy. 
• Government and Institutional Support: 
  • The initiative aligns with the Rural Development, Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Labour ministries to enhance rural welfare. 
  • There are plans to expand RSVC across India, with 20 more centers in development. 
  • The "Techpreneurs" program will empower women to promote these technologies within their communities, ensuring sustainability and long-term success. 

 Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAG) 

• RuTAG is an initiative of the office of the Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) since 2004. 
• It was conceptualized as a mechanism to provide a higher level of science and technology intervention and support for rural areas. 
• Under this initiative, the interventions are designed to be primarily demand-driven, focusing on bridging technology gaps at the grassroots level, upgrading technology, and providing training and demonstrations through innovative projects.