UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana: A Complete Analysis

In a rapidly digitizing world, access to technology is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Recognizing this, the Uttar Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, launched the UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana, officially known as the Swami Vivekananda Youth Empowerment Scheme. This ambitious initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by distributing free smartphones and tablets to students across the state. Announced on August 19, 2021, during an address in the state assembly, the scheme targets empowering over 1 crore (10 million) youths with tools to enhance education, skill development, and employability.

If you’re a student, parent, or educator in Uttar Pradesh wondering how to benefit from this program, you’ve landed on the right page. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything about the UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana—what it is, who qualifies, how to apply, and where to check your status. We’ll also cover its objectives, benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and the latest updates as of March 22, 2025. Let’s dive in!

What Is UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana?

The UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana is a flagship initiative by the Uttar Pradesh government to provide free smartphones and tablets to students enrolled in various educational and training programs. Launched as part of the broader Swami Vivekananda Youth Empowerment Scheme, it seeks to digitally empower the state’s youth, ensuring they have access to modern technology for academic and professional growth.

The scheme was conceptualized during the COVID-19 pandemic when online education became critical, yet many students lacked the devices to participate. With a budget of over Rs. 3,600 crore, the government aims to distribute these devices to students pursuing graduation, post-graduation, diplomas, technical courses, skill development programs, paramedical studies, and nursing. The official portal, up.gov.in, serves as the gateway for updates, while the DigiShakti portal (digishakti.up.gov.in) facilitates registration and verification processes.

Key Objectives of the Scheme

• Promote Digital Literacy: Equip students with tools to access online education and resources.
• Enhance Employability: Provide access to digital platforms for skill development and job opportunities.
• Support Education: Ensure uninterrupted learning, especially in remote areas.
• Increase Awareness: Disseminate information about government schemes and services through preloaded apps.

Why Was UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana Introduced?

The digital revolution has transformed education and work, but not everyone has equal access to it. In Uttar Pradesh, a state with a significant rural population, many students from economically weaker sections struggled during the shift to online learning in 2020–2021. The UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana was introduced to address this gap, ensuring that no student is left behind due to a lack of resources.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that empowering youth with technology is key to building a self-reliant Uttar Pradesh. By providing free smartphones and tablets, the government aims to level the playing field, enabling students to compete in a tech-driven world. The scheme also aligns with the national Digital India initiative, fostering a digitally active state.

Who Is Eligible for UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana?

Not every resident of Uttar Pradesh qualifies for this scheme—it’s specifically tailored for students. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility criteria:

Eligible Candidates

1. Students in Recognized Institutions:
   • Enrolled in graduation, post-graduation, diploma, technical, paramedical, nursing, or skill development courses.
   • Studying in government schools, colleges, universities, or government-aided institutions in Uttar Pradesh.
2. Permanent Residents:
   • Must be a permanent resident of Uttar Pradesh.
3. Economic Background:
   • Preference given to students from economically weaker sections, typically with a family income of Rs. 2 lakh or less per annum.
4. Educational Status:
   • Must have no backlogs from previous academic years to qualify.

Ineligible Candidates

• Students in private institutions not aided by the government.
• Those already possessing a smartphone or tablet from another government scheme.
• Families with an annual income exceeding Rs. 2 lakh (subject to verification).

How Does UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana Work?

The scheme operates through a structured process involving educational institutions, government portals, and selected vendors. Here’s how it functions:

1. Registration by Institutions:
   • Colleges, universities, and training institutes register eligible students on the DigiShakti portal (digishakti.up.gov.in).
   • Students don’t apply individually—their institutions handle the process.
2. Verification:
   • E-KYC (electronic Know Your Customer) via Aadhaar authentication ensures no duplication or fraud.
   • This step became mandatory in 2024 to streamline distribution.
3. Distribution:
   • Devices are distributed through institutions or at government-organized events, like those held at Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.
   • Vendors like Samsung, Lava, and Acer supply the smartphones and tablets.
4. Monitoring:
   • The government tracks distribution progress and updates beneficiaries via SMS or the DigiShakti portal.

How to Apply for UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana

Unlike many government schemes, the UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana doesn’t require students to apply directly. Here’s the step-by-step process handled by institutions:

Application Process

1. Institutional Registration:
   • Your college or university logs into digishakti.up.gov.in.
   • They upload student details, including name, enrollment number, course, and Aadhaar number.
2. E-KYC Verification:
   • Students may need to complete Aadhaar-based E-KYC, either through the institution or independently via the “Meri Pehchaan” portal.
   • Steps for self E-KYC:
     • Visit digishakti.up.gov.in.
     • Select “E-KYC” under “Meri Pehchaan.”
     • Enter your university/college details and enrollment number.
     • Verify using Aadhaar OTP or login credentials.
3. Submission:
   • Institutions submit the verified list to the government for approval.
4. Distribution Notification:
   • Once approved, students receive their devices through their institution or at a designated event.

No Direct Online Application

As of March 22, 2025, there’s no option for students to apply directly on up.gov.in. The process is entirely institution-driven, ensuring accurate targeting of beneficiaries.

Required Documents for UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana

While students don’t submit documents themselves, institutions require the following to register you:

• Aadhaar Card: Mandatory for E-KYC verification.
• College/University ID: Proof of enrollment.
• Educational Certificates: Mark sheets from the previous year/course.
• Residential Proof: To confirm UP residency (often linked to Aadhaar).
• Income Certificate: If applicable, to verify economic status.
• Passport-Size Photo: For institutional records.

Ensure your Aadhaar details are updated, as discrepancies can delay verification.

How to Check UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana List 2025

After registration, you’ll want to confirm your eligibility. Here’s how to check the beneficiary list:

1. Visit the Official Portal:
   • Go to digishakti.up.gov.in or yuvasathi.in.
2. Locate the List:
   • Look for “UP Free Smartphone Yojana List 2025” or “Beneficiary List” on the homepage.
3. Enter Details:
   • Input your enrollment number, Aadhaar number, or application ID (provided by your institution).
4. Check Status:
   • If your name appears, you’re approved. If not, check the rejection list for reasons (e.g., incomplete E-KYC or ineligibility).
5. Download PDF:
   • Some portals offer a downloadable district-wise list in PDF format.

Alternatively, contact your institution for updates, as they receive direct notifications.

Latest Updates on UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana (March 2025)

As of March 22, 2025, here’s what’s new with the scheme:

• Distribution Progress: Over 12.35 lakh devices were distributed by December 2024, with plans to reach 25 lakh students annually.
• E-KYC Mandate: Introduced in September 2024 to prevent duplication, students must complete Aadhaar verification.
• Vendor Partnerships: Samsung, Acer, Lava, and others continue to supply devices, with tenders worth Rs. 3,600 crore approved in 2023.
• Phase-wise Rollout: The government targets 1 crore beneficiaries across multiple phases, with 2025 marking a significant milestone.

Stay tuned to up.gov.in or local news for real-time updates.

Benefits of UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana

This scheme offers transformative advantages for students:

• Free Devices: Smartphones (worth Rs. 9,972) and tablets at no cost.
• Educational Access: Preloaded apps for online classes, syllabi, and skill courses.
• Digital Empowerment: Connectivity to global resources and job portals.
• Government Services: Access to schemes via apps like UMANG and DigiLocker.
• Free Data Plans: Some beneficiaries receive complimentary data for a limited period.

Limitations of UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana

Despite its benefits, the scheme has constraints:

• Institution Dependency: Students can’t apply independently, relying on colleges.
• Eligibility Restrictions: Excludes private institution students and higher-income families.
• Distribution Delays: Logistical challenges and verification delays have slowed progress in some districts.
• One-Time Benefit: No replacements for lost or damaged devices.

UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana vs. Other Schemes

How does it compare to similar initiatives? Let’s see:

UP Smartphone Yojana vs. PM Laptop Scheme

• UP Scheme: Focuses on smartphones/tablets for UP students.
• PM Scheme: Targets laptops for meritorious students nationwide.

UP Smartphone Yojana vs. Rajasthan Free Mobile Yojana

• UP Scheme: Targets students in higher education/training.
• Rajasthan Scheme: Provides mobiles to women under the Chiranjeevi Yojana.

Common Myths About UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana

Let’s debunk some misconceptions:

1. Myth: Anyone in UP can apply.
   • Fact: Only eligible students via institutions qualify.
2. Myth: It’s a one-time scheme.
   • Fact: It’s ongoing, with annual targets.
3. Myth: You pay a fee for the device.
   • Fact: It’s completely free for beneficiaries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana

1. What is the official website for UP Smartphone Yojana?

The primary portals are up.gov.in for updates and digishakti.up.gov.in for registration/verification.

2. Can I apply online myself?

No, applications are submitted by your educational institution.

3. How do I know if I’m selected?

Check the beneficiary list on digishakti.up.gov.in or ask your college.

4. What if I miss the distribution?

Contact your institution—devices are typically held temporarily before reallocation.

5. Are NRIs or private students eligible?

No, only UP residents in government-aided institutions qualify.

Pro Tips for Beneficiaries

• Complete E-KYC Promptly: Delays in Aadhaar verification can exclude you.
• Stay Informed: Follow up.gov.in or your college for updates.
• Preserve Your Device: No replacements are provided, so handle it carefully.
• Leverage Preloaded Apps: Use educational and government apps to maximize benefits.

Conclusion

The UP.gov.in Smartphone Yojana is a game-changer for Uttar Pradesh’s youth, offering free smartphones and tablets to unlock a world of opportunities. Whether you’re a student aiming to excel academically or seeking skills for a brighter future, this scheme ensures technology isn’t a barrier. While it relies heavily on institutional coordination, its impact on digital inclusion is undeniable.

Ready to benefit? Reach out to your college or university to confirm your registration, complete your E-KYC, and stay updated via digishakti.up.gov.in. Have questions or experiences to share? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear from you!