YouTube Video Helps Man Open Digital Hub in Rural India

A YouTube video changed everything for Mukesh Kumar, who was struggling with unstable income in his village in Ambedkar Nagar district, India.

While scrolling through his phone, Kumar stumbled upon information about an interest-free loan program for young entrepreneurs. He decided to take a chance on self-employment after years of financial uncertainty.

Kumar visited his local District Industries Centre, submitted his documents, and received a loan of 150,000 rupees (about $1,800). He used the money to open Vyam Janseva Kendra, a cyber cafe and digital services center in Navtariya Mustafabad.

For nearly a year now, his shop has served as a lifeline for residents who need help with everyday digital tasks. People travel from villages two to ten kilometers away to get assistance with Aadhaar cards, electricity bills, passport applications, and pension documentation.

"Customers are like God to us. It is our duty to complete their work patiently," Kumar says.

Many of his customers are unfamiliar with government websites and online procedures. Word of mouth keeps bringing new people through his door, especially older residents who struggle with technology.

Kumar used his loan to buy a computer, printer, and basic shop fittings. The CM YUVA Yojana program gave him breathing room by providing funds without immediate interest payments, allowing him to focus on building his customer base.

The Ripple Effect

Kumar's cyber cafe is doing more than keeping one family stable. The shop has employed several people over the past year, giving others in his community steady work.

By making digital services accessible in a rural area, Kumar is helping bridge the technology gap that keeps many Indians from accessing government benefits and services. What might take hours of travel and confusion now takes minutes at a neighborhood shop.

Kumar plans to expand once he repays his current loan. He wants to add more services and scale up operations, creating even more local opportunities in Ambedkar Nagar district.

What started as a YouTube video during a moment of uncertainty has become a steady source of income and community service. Kumar's story shows how targeted support for young entrepreneurs can transform not just individual lives, but entire neighborhoods that lack basic digital access.