)
Since its launch in 2021, the Sugamya Bharat mobile application has received over 1,400 complaints related to accessibility. The app, aimed at aiding people with disabilities and the elderly, allows users to report issues with public infrastructure, transportation, and buildings by uploading photos.
Complaint Statistics
According to data obtained through a Right to Information (RTI) request:
- Total Complaints Received (2021-2024): 1,441
- Complaints Resolved: 1,081 (approximately 75%)
Annual Breakdown
- 2021-22:
- Complaints Received: 647
- Resolved: 567
- 2022-23:
- Complaints Received: 530
- Resolved: 391
- 2023-24:
- Complaints Received: 264
- Resolved: 123
Future Upgrades
The government plans to redesign the Sugamya Bharat app to improve its functionality. The upgraded version will feature:
- AI-Powered Chatbot: For enhanced user interaction.
- Multilingual Interface: To cater to users in different languages.
- Advanced Tools: For complaint registration and feedback.
A partnership with NGO Mission Accessibility and the research institute I-STEM is underway to develop the AI-enabled app.
Government Initiatives
- Collaboration with IIT-Kharagpur: Developing a specialized course on designing accessible buildings to be introduced in 27 institutions, including other IITs.
- Focus on Accessibility: Efforts are being made to enhance accessibility across India’s built environment, transportation, and ICT systems.
Challenges and Solutions
The app has faced logistical challenges, especially at the state level. However, the complaint resolution process has been streamlined to address these issues.
Disability rights activist Dr. Satendra Singh highlighted that earlier versions of the app had technical limitations, particularly for visually-impaired users. The government is working to address these gaps.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. How many complaints related to accessibility have been lodged through the Sugamya Bharat app since its launch?
a) 1,081
b) 1,441
c) 647
d) 530
Answer: b) 1,441
2. What percentage of complaints has been resolved by the Sugamya Bharat app?
a) 50%
b) 75%
c) 85%
d) 90%
Answer: b) 75%
3. Which year had the highest number of complaints resolved according to the RTI data?
a) 2021-22
b) 2022-23
c) 2023-24
d) All years had the same resolution rate
Answer: a) 2021-22
4. What new features will be included in the redesigned Sugamya Bharat app?
a) Voice commands and email support
b) AI-powered chatbot and multilingual interface
c) Video support and live chat
d) SMS notifications and call support
Answer: b) AI-powered chatbot and multilingual interface
5. Which institute is collaborating with the government to develop a course on accessible building design?
a) IIT-Mumbai
b) IIT-Kharagpur
c) IIT-Delhi
d) IIT-Bombay
Answer: b) IIT-Kharagpur