Option 4: providing affordable and quality education to the citizens for free.

SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active-Learning for Young Aspiring Minds) is an initiative launched by the Government of India in 2013 with the aim of providing affordable and quality education to all citizens for free. It is an online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses from various disciplines including engineering, humanities, management, sciences, and more. SWAYAM aims to bridge the digital divide in education by making learning accessible to anyone with an internet connection, irrespective of their geographical location or economic background.

There are several reasons why Option 4 is the correct answer:

1. Free Education: SWAYAM offers courses for free, making education accessible to all citizens, regardless of their financial status. This helps in democratizing education and providing equal opportunities for learning to everyone, including those who may not have the means to afford expensive education.

2. Affordable Education: SWAYAM courses are designed to be cost-effective compared to traditional educational methods. It eliminates the need for expensive textbooks and learning materials as everything is available online, reducing the financial burden on students.

3. Quality Education: SWAYAM courses are developed and taught by experienced faculty from reputed institutions, ensuring high-quality content and delivery. The courses are regularly updated to keep up with the latest developments in the field, ensuring that learners receive relevant and up-to-date knowledge.

4. Diverse Course Offerings: SWAYAM offers a wide range of courses from various disciplines, catering to the diverse interests and needs of learners. It includes courses at different levels, from school level to postgraduate level, providing opportunities for continuous learning and skill development.

5. Flexibility in Learning: SWAYAM provides learners with the flexibility to learn at their own pace and convenience. Learners can access the courses anytime, anywhere, and can learn at their own speed, which promotes self-directed learning and allows learners to balance their education with other responsibilities.

6. Interactive Learning Experience: SWAYAM courses are designed to provide an interactive learning experience through multimedia content, video lectures, quizzes, assignments, and discussion forums. This encourages active learning, critical thinking, and peer-to-peer collaboration, enhancing the overall learning experience.

7. Certification: SWAYAM offers a certification mechanism for learners who successfully complete the courses. These certificates are recognized by various institutions and industries, adding value to the learner`s credentials and enhancing their employability.

In conclusion, SWAYAM, an initiative of the Government of India, aims at providing affordable and quality education to citizens for free. It offers diverse courses, promotes self-directed learning, provides interactive learning experiences, and offers certification, making it an effective platform for lifelong learning and skill development.