The Smartpur Project was launched by Nokia in May 2018 in partnership with the Digital Empowerment Foundation (DEF) to create digitally integrated and self-sustaining rural communities in India. The project aimed to bridge the digital divide by providing essential services in education, health, livelihood, governance, and financial inclusion using digital technology.
Key Milestones in Smartpur’s Journey:
2018 - Pilot Phase:
Launched in Tain village, Nuh (Haryana), and Asoor village, Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu) as pilot sites.
Focused on digital literacy, telemedicine, e-governance, and online financial services.
2019-2020 - Expansion:
The project expanded to 100 villages across India, following a hub-and-spoke model, where a central hub village supported multiple surrounding spoke villages.
The initiative introduced Wi-Fi-enabled community centers to provide internet access to remote areas.
2021 - Digital Empowerment During COVID-19:
During the pandemic, Smartpur centers played a crucial role in providing telemedicine consultations, online education, and access to government relief programs.
Increased digital financial transactions and online job training programs for rural youth.
2023 - Expansion in Jammu & Kashmir (Including Samba):
Nokia established 24 new Smartpur centers in Jammu & Kashmir, with 18 centers in Samba district.
These centers aimed to provide digital access to education, healthcare, and livelihoods in remote villages.
2024 - Collaboration with REACHA NGO:
Smartpur partnered with REACHA NGO to expand its reach and impact, improving service delivery and community engagement.
Focused on skill development, financial literacy, and e-governance initiatives in rural communities.
Current Status & Future Goals:
Today, Smartpur continues to grow, integrating AI-based learning, IoT-driven healthcare, and smart governance solutions into rural communities. The partnership with REACHA further strengthens its mission to create digitally empowered, self-sustaining villages across India.