Common Service Center (CSC) - Government and Public Services in India

A Common Service Center (CSC) is a digital access point established under the Digital India initiative by the Government of India. These centers serve as a one-stop solution for delivering various government and non-government services to people, especially in rural and remote areas.

Who Runs Common Service Centers?

Common Service Centers are operated by Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLE) who manage the center and provide essential services to local residents. These centers play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide and ensuring financial and digital inclusion across India.

Key Objectives of Common Service Centers

• Providing Digital Access: Ensuring citizens in remote areas can access digital and e-governance services.
• Employment Generation: Creating self-employment opportunities for entrepreneurs.
• Financial Inclusion: Offering banking, insurance, and financial services to underserved populations.
• Bridging the Digital Divide: Increasing digital literacy and promoting e-governance services.
• Empowering Rural India: Facilitating government schemes and welfare programs.

How to Apply for a Common Service Center?

If you want to start a CSC and become a Village Level Entrepreneur (VLE), follow this step-by-step process:

Step-by-Step CSC Registration Process:

• Step 1: Visit the official CSC registration portal.
• Step 2: Click on "New VLE Registration" and accept the terms & conditions.
• Step 3: Enter required details like TEC Certificate Number and BC/BF Certificate Number.
• Step 4: Provide email ID and PAN card details for verification.
• Step 5: Enter bank account details (including nominee information).
• Step 6: Upload necessary documents (Aadhaar, photo, qualification proof, etc.).
• Step 7: Review and submit the application.
• Step 8: You will receive an Application Reference Number for tracking.
• Step 9: Download the CSC App and complete verification.
• Step 10: Once approved, your CSC ID will be activated, and you can start offering services.

Eligibility Criteria to Open a Common Service Center

To apply for a CSC, you must meet the following requirements:

• Minimum Age: 18 years and above
• Educational Qualification: At least 10th pass from a recognized board
• Computer Knowledge: Basic computer literacy required
• Infrastructure: A shop/office with a computer, internet connection, printer, and biometric device
• Valid Documents: Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, and a bank account

Services Offered by Common Service Centers

A Common Service Center offers a wide range of government and private sector services, including:

Digital & Government Services

• Aadhaar Enrollment & Updates
• PAN Card Application & Corrections
• Voter ID Card Registration & Updates
• Driving License Applications & Renewals
• Utility Bill Payments (Electricity, Water, Gas)
• Passport Application Assistance
• Land Records & Property Documents
• E-District Services & Local Government Schemes

Banking & Financial Services

• Bank Account Opening & Transactions
• Deposit & Withdrawal Services
• Loan Applications (Home, Business, Agriculture, MSME)
• Insurance Services (Life, Health, Crop Insurance)
• Pension Schemes (NPS, PM-SYM, APY, etc.)
• Money Transfer Services

Education & Skill Development

• Online Learning Courses & Certifications
• PMGDISHA (Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan)
• Competitive Exam Form Submissions
• Vocational Training & Skill Development Programs

Healthcare & Telemedicine Services

• Online Doctor Consultation (Telemedicine)
• Booking Appointments in Government & Private Hospitals
• Ordering Medicines Online

Agriculture & Rural Services

• Crop Insurance Registration (PMFBY – Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana)
• Soil Health Card & Agricultural Subsidies
• Online Market Linkages for Farmers
• Fertilizer & Seed Distribution Services

Miscellaneous Services

• DTH & Mobile Recharge
• Train, Bus, and Flight Ticket Bookings
• Caste, Domicile & Income Certificates
• Scholarship Applications & Educational Loans