AKSHAYA, an innovative project implemented in the State of Kerala aimed at bridging the digital divide, addresses the issues of ICT access, basic skill sets and availability of relevant content. Akshaya Service delivery facilities are set up within a maximum of 2 kilometers for any household and networked leveraging entrepreneurship.
Kerala is the first State in India to take initiative for the mass transformation of ICT by the implementation of district wide e-literacy project ‘AKSHAYA’ in 2002 (G.O.(MS.)22-2002-ITD), with an intention of ‘Empowering Kerala’. The venture paved the way for the migration of Kerala to the first e-literate state.
Akshaya Centers are identified as the medium for delivering services between Government and Citizen (G2C) and are being set up within a maximum of 2 kilometers for any household for the effective delivery of Government services to the public. Kerala State IT Mission is one of the core partners in the implementation of the Akshaya projects in the state.
Selection of Entrepreneurs:
Entrepreneurs are selected to a new location or a vacant location through a three tier recruitment process. Interested Candidates have to register online, based on notification from government. Eligible candidates will be invited for online test and interview and based on the selection criteria selection will be done for operating the centre.
Details regarding the norms for Selection of Entrepreneurs, application form and evaluation criteria is published via (G.O.(MS.)17-2007-ITD). The format of CSC Agreement for entrepreneurs can be downloaded from Akshaya web site .
The guideline document regarding the roles and responsibilities of Akshaya Entrepreneurs include all operational processes of running the centre, including identifying a suitable built-up space, infrastructure, signages, delivery services to citizens etc.