Introduction
Did you know that only 38% of households in India are digitally literate? In cities, the number rises to 61%, but in rural areas, it drops to just 25%. That means most children, especially in smaller towns and villages, have little to no access to computer education.
Source: Ministry of Labour & Employment, p.2 (PDF)
Every day, millions of students are left behind in the digital age. Government schools struggle to provide even basic computer access. And in many places, digital education is still considered a luxury.
If you’re a teacher, a local leader, or simply someone who wants to give the next generation a real chance, you’ve probably felt the frustration. Computers are expensive. Training is hard to find. And without a donor or a big budget, opening a digital classroom can feel impossible.
That’s exactly where Apni Pathshala comes in.
We work with people like you, community educators, changemakers, and everyday leaders to start a digital classroom called PODs. These are local, low-cost digital classrooms that bring real computer skills to the children who need them most. And the best part? You don’t need to overcharge your students to buy expensive equipment.
Let’s take a closer look at what Apni Pathshala is and how you can start your own POD.
What is Apni Pathshala?
Apni Pathshala is a nationwide network that helps people set up small, community-based digital classrooms. We’re active across India, from Kashmir to Tamil Nadu, Gujarat to Nagaland. Our mission: to help people like you open “PODs” for real computer education in places where it’s needed most.
We don’t charge you fees or ask for donations. Instead, we provide computers on a yearly renewable lease, plus ongoing support, and community.
What is a POD?
A POD (Point of Digital Learning) is a classroom space, usually 200 sq. ft. or more, where students from your area can come to learn digital skills on real computers. Each POD is led by local educators or volunteers who know their community best. Apni Pathshala supports these spaces with computers, guidance, and a community network.
This is not a donation; the computers are leased for a year at no cost to you, with renewal based on regular updates and community use.
What You Need Before You Apply
To open a POD, you’ll need to have these basics ready:
- Space: At least 200 sq. ft., owned or rented, safe and accessible.
- Electricity: Power for 6+ hours a day, safe wiring, and an inverter.
- Safety: Ideally, CCTV and a simple way to record attendance.
- Infrastructure: Tables (about 2 sq. ft. per computer), chairs, and enough electrical sockets (2 per computer; Avoid extensions).
- Internet: Minimum 10 Mbps broadband connection.
- Responsible person: At least one person who’s comfortable using and maintaining computers, and can send regular updates/photos.
- Online Presence: A simple website and an active Social media. This helps with credibility and outreach.
How to Start Your POD
Step 1: Fill Out the Application
Go to apnipathshala.org/start-a-pod and fill out the form with your details and your plan.
Step 2: Wait for Review
The team reviews your application and emails you within 15 days about the next steps.
Step 3: Submit a Proposal
If selected, you’ll be asked to submit a more detailed proposal explaining your goals, student count, curriculum ideas, and how you’ll run the POD.
Step 4: Prepare and Show Your Lab
Before approval, you’ll send a short video tour of your classroom, showing tables, chairs, electric connections, lighting, and safety.
Only setups that are safe and ready get approved.
Step 5: Attend a Google Meet
You and your team will join a quick online meeting to discuss your vision, plans, and community needs.
Step 6: Sign the MOU
Once everything checks out, you’ll receive an MOU (agreement) that explains your responsibilities and the terms for using the computers.
Step 7: Receive Your Computers
Once the MOU is signed, your computers will be delivered to your location. You have to check and unbox them, then share the unboxing and setup video with the team.
What Happens Next?
When your POD is live, you join the Apni Pathshala community:
- Share updates, reports, photos, and stories from your classroom.
- Get access to digital teaching tools, new training, and ongoing support.
- Connect with other POD teachers across India and share best practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay to open a POD?
No. We don’t charge fees, and computers are leased to you without any cost.
Can I charge students?
You can charge a small, reasonable fee to students; avoid overcharging.
Do I need a teaching degree?
No. You just need basic tech skills and a willingness to teach.
What if I’m already an NGO or community group?
Great! NGOs are encouraged to apply.
How many students do I need to start?
At least 30+ students in your first three months.
Conclusion
Opening a POD isn’t just about setting up computers.
It’s about giving your community a future.
In places where digital education is still out of reach, one POD can change everything. It gives students access to real-world skills, helps them stay curious, and creates opportunities that weren’t there before.
You don’t need a big budget, a fancy degree, or an NGO to get started. You need space, consistency, and the drive to do something meaningful.
Apni Pathshala gives you the tools. You bring the purpose.
If you’ve ever thought, “I want to do something that matters,” this is your chance. Start small, start local, but start now.
đź“Ť Ready to begin? Visit apnipathshala.org/start-a-pod and take the first step today.
If you have any doubts, please let us know in the comment section and share this blog with your nearest leader who wants to make an impact on the education system.
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One Response
A very amazing guide; you can check the ‘Start a POD’ page for more information. These PODs are revolutionising Digital Literacy all over India.