BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

• The Union Education Department is emphasizing the need for digital literacy among senior citizens.
• This comes in response to a rise in cybercrimes targeting the elderly.
• The aim is to equip them with practical digital skills and awareness to navigate the modern world safely.

DSERT’S ROLE IN DIGITAL EDUCATION

• The Department of School Education Research and Training (DSERT) has been directed to:
  • Revise and update textbooks for elderly learners.
  • Collaborate with the Directorate of Mass Education to ensure content relevance.
• A new textbook, ‘Baalige Belaku’, has been developed with chapters focused on digital education for senior citizens.

KEY FOCUS AREAS IN THE CURRICULUM

Understanding Digital Safety

• Importance of One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and how to use them safely.
• Awareness about digital arrest scams and their warning signs.
• Recognizing suspicious apps and links to avoid online traps.
• Safe practices for digital transactions and personal data protection.

Real-Life Scenarios

• Inclusion of practical, everyday digital situations to make learning relatable.
• Case studies and examples based on real incidents involving seniors.

Urgency Behind the Initiative

• Increasing reports of digital fraud involving the elderly.
• Notable incidents like an elderly couple’s suicide following a digital arrest scam highlighted the need for awareness.
• Officials stress that literacy must evolve to include digital skills.

SCOPE AND REACH

• Currently, 1.86 crore elderly illiterates identified in:
  • Bengaluru
  • Belagavi
  • Kalaburagi
  • Mysuru
• Classes will be conducted at the gram panchayat level during evening and night hours for convenience.

HANDS-ON DIGITAL TRAINING

Practical Digital Skills Taught

• Booking e-tickets and identifying official websites.
• Making secure digital payments and transferring money online.
• Withdrawing cash from ATMs safely.

Handling Digital Threats

• Identifying and responding to unknown callers asking for personal data or OTPs.
• Understanding steps to take if threatened or falsely accused over a phone call.