DIGISEVA Description and FAQ
DIGISEVA:
Digital Service for Empowering and Vitalizing All
Innovate for Society, Transform Your Life
ātmano mokṣārthaṃ jagaddhitāya ca
(“For the salvation of our individual self and for the well-being of all in the world”)
–Swami Vivekananda’s mantra
Preamble:
Technology has the power to change the world, but it requires enlightened minds and selfless hearts to put it to proper use. Ramakrishna Mission’s DIGISEVA program, conducted under the auspices of Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Education and Research Institute, an institution declared as Deemed to be University by the Government of India under Section 3 of University Grants Commission (UGC) Act, 1956, aspires to realize Swami Vivekananda’s above mantra in the present digital world with increasing AI (Artificial Intelligence) dominance. Here’s inviting the Digi Seva members, fired with the idealism and vision to empower and vitalize all, who are longing to and certainly deserve to participate in this global digital awakening by getting exposed to and trained in the emerging modern digital technologies while being rooted in their own indigenous culture, Bharatiya Jnana Parampara (Indian Wisdom Tradition), as envisioned by Swami Vivekananda through the creation of the University RKMVERI in the sacred precincts of Belur Math. We believe that such a vision, when brought to bear upon the digital revolution happening in the modern age with maddening speed, can alone bring about the much needed course correction to effectively quell the misuse of modern technologies by man’s selfishness, greed and egotism. The most important pre-requisite, sine qua non for the success of the above venture is, according to Swami Vivekananda, men and women, particularly youth with integrated personalities combining the three h’s: heart to feel, head to think and hands to work. In his own words: “Men, men, these are wanted: everything else will be ready, but strong, vigorous, believing young men, sincere to the backbone, a hundred such and the world becomes revolutionized. ” “A hundred thousand men and women, fired with the zeal of holiness, fortified with eternal faith in the Lord, and nerved to Lion’s courage by their sympathy for the poor and the fallen and the downtrodden, will go over the length and breadth of the land, preaching the gospel of salvation, the gospel of help, the gospel of social raising up–the gospel of equality.”
As a small initial step in realizing the above vision is the digital empowerment of the rural and tribal population so that the ‘digital divide’ gets erased for ever and our rural and tribal brethren emerge with pride as digital titans to compete with the so-called elite from urban areas. This initiative, we believe, will create a large band of educated youth as described by Swami Vivekananda (quoted above) and offer them a unique opportunity to apply their skills in the field of ‘translational research’ for societal benefit through the execution of real-world technology projects that will not only brining blessings to society (particularly the disadvantaged and marginalized)—what Swami Vivekananda called ‘jagaddhita’, wellbeing of the whole world—while at the same time helping them to manifest the Perfection already them (which is how Swami Vivekananda defined ‘education’)—leading to ‘atmano moksha’ liberation of the self from self-centredness, egotism and narrowness. This will reveal to these ‘digital warriors’ (as we have chosen to call such committed, dedicated workforce who will respond to our call for the above ‘DigiSeva’ initiative) the higher dimensions of their own selves and add elevate them through a discovery of the profound sense of purpose of their lives dedicated to the service of the ‘Divine in all beings’. DigiSeva will provide the ambience, environment, handholding and support, resources and above all the company of like-minded ‘warriors’ who are committed to selfless service.
Description of the programme: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) by a DigiSeva volunteer-applicant
Question: What is the DIGISEVA programme?
Answer: DIGISEVA is a volunteer programme that gives you the opportunity to work with us for a duration varying from 3 months to 1 year (or even more if you get hooked on to the charm and power of this grand programme) on a real-world societal problem using the emerging and continuously evolving digital technology. The goal is to create social impact for the benefit of the masses through applied technology and research. Upon completing your project in the chosen timeframe, you will be awarded a certificate of involvement and active participation. Needless to say, we would welcome longer-term associations from those ‘digital warriors’ with passion for taking up the challenges of open-ended projects spanning long periods of time.
Q: How will this programme benefit me personally?
The ‘Preamble’ above says it all. In a nutshell, this programme is oriented to the goal set by Swami Vivekananda through his pithy statement, a mantra: ‘ātmano mokṣārthaṃ jagaddhitāya ca (‘For the salvation of our individual self and for the well-being of all in the world’). By stepping away from the rush of daily city life with time spent in chasing the three p’s that plague our educational system: ‘prospects, placement, package’, you move into our tranquil retreat campus, like a modern tapovana (forest-like environment surrounded by trees and plants and birds where congenial to cultivating high, elevating thoughts) you give yourself the mental space to build a balanced, noble lifestyle of reflection and meditation combined with selfless work. Professionally, you will gain hands-on experience, autonomy of action and thought, independence to pursue research, and the great opportunity to see and wonder how your innovative ideas work in the real world. Personally, the philosophy of ‘selfless service’ as taught by Swami Vivekananda in his grand scheme of ‘Practical Vedanta’ will reward you with a profound sense of joy and fulfilment of life’s purpose.
Who is eligible to apply?
Academic qualifications (minimum):
Graduate with 4-year Hons., under the National Education Policy 2020 pattern or those with 3-years of study in the old pattern, (preferably from the science and technology streams although those from other streams may also be considered depending on their motivation and the eagerness to learn), with consistently good academic record indicative of high level performance.
Age and other criteria:
18-65 years of age, with a sense of commitment and passion for contributing to societal welfare, wellbeing of their brethren belonging particularly to the rural and tribal population, may apply. Sincerity of purpose, focus on the goal, one-pointed devotion to achieving the objective of the programme, hard work and above all, drawn to the ideal of selfless service as described above, are the sine qua non.
What are the kinds of skills needed?
As this is a skill-based technological programme, please be sure to identify the primary skill that you want to leverage and put to use. This will help us assign the right kind of project suitable for you. The skills are categorized into software technologies, financial technologies, media technologies and emerging technologies. Examples of applicable skills include Generative AI (LLMs, Agents, RAG), Multidisciplinary AI (Health, Climate Change, Neuroscience) Data Visualization, SaaS based Software and Web development, FinTech implementation, Multimedia content creation (e.g., AI-based media content generation using cloud/on-device LLMs, 360 Immersive Video, Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos Tech, Adobe cloud creative media apps), AR/VR development (Apple iOS and Snapdragon development), IoT engineering, 3D mapping/scanning and editing, neuroscience research for mental well-being through calmness, peaceful meditation practices, etc., UI/UX design/development, Agetech, Digital music generation (e.g., GeoShred app, Naadsadhana app), and Digital art work (e.g., Procreate app). This list, though not exhaustive, will give an idea of what you are entering into. You are free to introspect and identify any skill that you want to bring to the table, which you want to leverage for this programme with suitable training and practice.
What types of roles are available?
We have positions for Interns for students and those with less than 3 years of work experience and Fellows for professionals with 3+ years of work experience.
What kind of projects will be taken up?
Applied research projects nowadays called ‘translational research’ and development projects that directly benefits the society. Our programmes are multi-disciplinary (also called cross-disciplinary/inter-disciplinary) requiring a diverse array of skill sets. An indicative list of the ongoing projects and domains is given below. We are constantly adding new projects and can even define new ones depending on the unique skill set you bring with you; so please treat this list as a starting point.
We will match you with a project from our available pool based on your specific skills, interests, and your time commitment. Alternatively, you have the option to Bring Your Own Project (BYOP).
What kind of projects can I bring for BYOP?
Any project you that can impact lives of people at large, particularly the marginalized and underprivileged, in a meaningful way and make a positive contribution to the society through technical innovation. It must also feature a concrete plan that can be accomplished within a chosen timeframe. If you opt for BYOP, our team will review it first to map it with our programme’s goals, the time constraints and resource feasibility.
What will be the final deliverable of my project?
The final deliverables will depend entirely on the nature of your work. For example:
- An applied research project will require a demonstrable prototype or product.
- A product development project will result in a final, working product.
- Both the applied (‘translational’) research projects and product development projects might result in published papers.
What happens if I need to leave the program mid-way?
Participation in this programme being completely voluntary, you are free to leave whenever you need to or wish to. Nevertheless, at least a month’s notice will help us work out the continuance of the project with the help of others in our group. Please note that a certificate of completion will be awarded only to those who finish their full commitment.
Can I leave and join again later to continue my project?
Yes. However, since projects must continue running on their own schedules, you will need to submit a fresh application. If selected again, you may be assigned a different project depending on the programme’s current needs at that time, although we will strive to keep your preferences in mind.
What is the work environment like?
We foster a non-hierarchical work environment that gives you freedom and flexibility with a wide scope and the independence to choose the direction of your project. You can choose to work individually or in groups. Core members will be available to handhold and guide, and we conduct regular check-ins and doubt-clearing sessions to facilitate your success. You will have the unique opportunity to try out new ideas and see them working in the field in real-world scenarios.
Where will I be working?
Selected volunteers will begin with a 10-day immersion program at the sacred precincts of Belur Math near Kolkata where Swami Vivekananda lived his last days and passed away in mahasamadhi at RKMVERI’s Main Campus. This will orientate and help you get acclimatized to the environment and the mode of working of our projects. Upon completing the immersion program, you will move to our retreat campus(es) to continue your work.
What can I expect in the immersion programme?
The immersion program is a critical part of the programme experience where we get to know each other through direct personal interaction. During this time, we will work closely with you to clearly define your project goals, decide on your specific outcomes and deliverables, and create a concrete plan for your time with us. You will also get an intimate look at how we work and the impact your project will have on society.
Do I have to live on campus for the entire programme?
We are flexible on this. You may choose to stay at the retreat campus for the entire duration of the programme or work in a hybrid mode. If you choose the hybrid mode, you will be required to spend at least 50% of your programme duration at the campus. Rest of the time you may work from your own location with occasional physical visits to the campus.
Can I join at any time, or are there specific programme start and end dates?
You can join at any time that is most opportune for you. While we occasionally issue programme invites for larger groups—which offers the advantage of joining alongside others—project assignments are ultimately handled on an individual basis. There is no need to wait for a specific batch to start.
Can I participate part-time?
DIGISEVA is a full-time programme. It requires a minimum commitment of 30 hours per week (6 hours a day, 5 days a week) for the duration of the programme. Owing to this immersive schedule, it will not leave you with the time to pursue other occupations or jobs simultaneously.
How will I manage my office responsibilities?
Since DIGISEVA requires your full-time focus, you will need to take a break or a sabbatical from your regular job, if any, while you are part of the programme.
How should I manage my home and family responsibilities?
We advise you to plan carefully and apply only when you are convinced you can see the commitment through to the end. If you are unable to commit full-time right now due to existing or upcoming family obligations, it is perfectly fine to wait until those commitments are over before joining. We want you to enjoy a fulfilling experience without feeling rushed or having to leave unexpectedly.
What are the living arrangements? Will I be paid?
The retreat campus provides modern amenities in a pristine, tranquil environment away from the din and bustle of city life. You will be provided with simple, nutritious, vegetarian food and comfortable, single-occupancy lodgings with attached bathrooms. The programme covers these accommodations along with your basic living expenses.
Please note that by the very nature of the programme, this is not a paid position. Interested people will volunteer to work on projects for the betterment and wellbeing of society in a spirit of selfless service and the holistic development of their own lives inspired by Swami Vivekananda’s ideal of Karma-Yoga. Further, as you will have a huge learning experience through this programme, you should take it as a free of charge training programme in the state-of-the-art emerging technologies under the guidance of knowledgeable and experienced guides/supervisors. However, on case-to-case evaluation of your needs and other conditions, we may, try to pay a small amount of honorarium consistent with our funds position.
Can I stay in contact with my family while on campus?
Yes. Our campus has stable network connectivity, so you will be able to stay in touch with your family. Even if you have chosen to fully residential option, you may take short leaves to visit your family if you like to.
Are there any strict rules or codes of conduct?
Although there are no strict rules as we want to foster a mature, focused environment, you will be required to maintain the decorum, sanctity and tranquillity of the campus and refrain from bringing guests to stay with you. Addictions of any kind are strictly forbidden. We encourage you to participate in and take advantage of the Campus’s spiritual ambience for silent contemplation, daily personal prayers, meditation, etc., of your choice and inclination. Nothing will be imposed on you, but contributing to a harmonious and joyful community life by your inter-personal conduct and behaviour is a sine qua non.
How do I apply, and what is the selection process?
To apply, simply fill out the form https://rkmm.link/digiseva2026b
with your details, and we will get back to you. On scrutiny of all the applications, we will prepare a shortlist. If you happen to be shortlisted, we will communicate to you the way forward to begin the work. We are planning a 10-day immersion camp at the Belur Math Main Campus of RKMVERI before the selected candidates moving to the retreat campus(es) to begin the work.
I live outside India; can I volunteer? (Including students and NRIs)
Yes, we welcome volunteers from across the globe. As relocating to India from abroad is difficult, if not impossible, those living outside India may participate in the initial immersion programme virtually from wherever they are and begin the project from there. We may review the progress and other logistics feasibility before requiring you move to our campus(es) in India. We are flexible and accommodative, the focus being on the progress of the work. In fact, for the Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) this programme could provide a wonderful opportunity as a stepping stone if you are exploring a return to India, as it will offer a meaningful, mid-way opportunity to transition while working out longer-term plans. Students in foreign universities can work virtually/remotely and join us, if possible, for a summer internship in our retreat campus(es). As we have said, we are flexible in our approach.
Can women participate in this programme?
Not immediately as we need to work out the logistics in India to be able to do this. The programme is, therefore, currently only open to men. We are developing options to include women through fully remote volunteering opportunities as we move on.
I have some health issues; can I still volunteer?
To ensure you have a safe and positive experience, we require all volunteers to be medically fit for continuous, full-time engagement for the entire duration of their project. Your health and well-being are important to us, so please ensure you are physically prepared for this level of commitment before applying.
I still have unanswered questions, who do I ask?
You may reach out to us at with any questions you might have, and we will get back to you. More info on the projects: