Digital Divide in India: Causes, Consequences and Solutions The digital divide is the gap between those who have access to and use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) such as the internet and mobile phones, and those who do not. The digital divide can have significant implications for social and economic development, as well as for individual empowerment and participation.
In this blog post, we will explore the digital divide in India, one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing online markets, but also one of the most unequal and diverse. We will look at the causes, consequences and solutions of the digital divide in India, based on various sources of data and research.
Causes of the digital divide in India:
The digital divide in India is influenced by multiple factors, such as:
Geography: India is a vast country with diverse terrain and climatic conditions, which pose challenges for building and maintaining ICT infrastructure. Rural areas, especially in remote or hilly regions, often lack adequate connectivity, electricity, and network coverage. According to the National Family Health Survey 2019–21 (NFHS), only 36.5% of rural households had access to the internet, compared to 62.4% of urban households.
Gender: Women in India face various socio-cultural barriers that limit their access to and use of ICTs, such as lack of education, mobility, decision-making power, safety, and privacy. The NFHS reported that only 33.3% of women had ever used the internet, compared to 57.1% of men. The gender gap was present across all states and was wider in rural areas than in urban areas.
Income: Affordability is a major constraint for accessing and using ICTs in India, where a large proportion of the population lives below the poverty line or on low incomes. The cost of devices, data plans, and other services can be prohibitive for many people, especially in rural areas where incomes are lower and livelihoods are more vulnerable. According to the World Bank, only 14% of the poorest 20% of households in India had internet access in 2017, compared to 72% of the richest 20%.
Literacy: Digital literacy is the ability to use ICTs effectively and safely for various purposes. It requires basic literacy skills as well as technical skills and awareness. In India, where the literacy rate is 77.7%, according to the 2021 census, many people lack the necessary skills and knowledge to access and use ICTs. Moreover, language is another barrier, as most online content and services are in English or other dominant languages, while many people speak regional or local languages. Consequences of the digital divide in India The digital divide in India has serious implications for various aspects of development and well-being, such as:
Education: The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of online education as a mode of learning and teaching during lockdowns and school closures. However, many students and teachers in India lack access to online platforms or devices, or face issues such as low bandwidth, frequent power cuts, or poor quality content. This affects their learning outcomes and opportunities, especially for disadvantaged groups such as girls, Dalits, Adivasis, and minorities.
Health: ICTs can play a vital role in improving health outcomes and services by providing information, awareness, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and telemedicine. However, many people in India are unable to access or use these benefits due to lack of connectivity, affordability, or digital literacy. This affects their health status and access to quality care, especially for rural populations, women, children, elderly, and people with disabilities.
Economy: ICTs can boost economic growth and productivity by enabling innovation, entrepreneurship, e-commerce, e-governance, and financial inclusion. However, many people in India are excluded from these opportunities due to lack of access or use of ICTs. This affects their income generation and employment prospects, especially for informal workers, small businesses, farmers, and artisans.
Society: ICTs can enhance social inclusion and participation by enabling communication, information sharing, networking, advocacy, and civic engagement. However, many people in India are marginalized or silenced due to lack of access or use of ICTs. This affects their voice and agency, especially for women, minorities, activists, and journalists. Solutions for the digital divide in India The digital divide in India is a complex and multidimensional problem that requires concerted and collaborative efforts from various stakeholders, such as:
Government: The government has a key role in creating an enabling policy and regulatory environment for ICT development and diffusion, as well as providing public infrastructure, services, and subsidies to ensure universal and affordable access and use of ICTs. Some of the government initiatives in this regard include the BharatNet project, the Digital India programme, the National Digital Literacy Mission, and the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan.
Private sector: The private sector has a crucial role in innovating and investing in ICT products, solutions, and platforms that cater to the diverse and dynamic needs and preferences of the Indian market, as well as ensuring quality, reliability, and security of their offerings. Some of the private sector initiatives in this regard include the Jio network, the Google Internet Saathi programme, the Facebook Express Wi-Fi project, and the Microsoft Project ReWeave.
Civil society: The civil society has a vital role in advocating and raising awareness about the importance and benefits of ICTs, as well as providing training, support, and resources to enhance digital literacy and skills among various segments of the population, especially the marginalized and vulnerable groups. Some of the civil society initiatives in this regard include the Digital Empowerment Foundation, the Internet Freedom Foundation, the Pratham Education Foundation, and the Barefoot College. Conclusion
The digital divide in India is a major challenge that needs to be addressed urgently and effectively. ICTs have the potential to transform India’s development and well-being, but only if they are accessible and usable by all. By bridging the digital divide, India can unleash its human and social capital, and achieve its vision of a digitally inclusive and empowered society.
In today’s interconnected world, access to the internet has become an essential tool for social, economic, and educational opportunities. These are what make our society and people flourish, grow, and expand their horizons. However, despite the significant advancements in technology and connectivity, a persistent gender gap in internet access continues to exist. This essay delves into the reasons behind this disparity and highlights the importance of bridging the gender gap in internet access to foster equality and empower women worldwide.
The Gender Gap in Internet Access: Across the globe, women face barriers and challenges that limit their access to the internet. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), women are on average 12% less likely to have internet access than men. This gender disparity is more prominent in developing countries and marginalized communities, where social, cultural, and economic factors intersect to create additional barriers.
Socio-cultural Factors: Deep-rooted gender norms and societal expectations often restrict women’s access to technology and the internet. Discriminatory social attitudes, such as cultural beliefs about women’s roles and responsibilities, contribute to the gender gap. In some cultures, women are expected to prioritize household duties over accessing the internet, limiting their digital literacy and participation.
Economic Disparities: Economic disparities play a significant role in limiting women’s access to the internet. In many societies, women face unequal employment opportunities and lower wages, making it challenging to afford internet-enabled devices and connectivity. Additionally, the lack of financial independence and control over resources further restricts women’s ability to access and utilize the internet.
Education and Digital Literacy:Limited access to education and digital literacy programs exacerbates the breach. Gender bias in educational opportunities, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, hampers women’s ability to acquire digital skills. This lack of technical proficiency prevents women from fully utilizing the internet’s potential, including online job opportunities, entrepreneurship, and educational resources.
Gender gap of Internet access in India
In India, there has been a significant gender gap in internet access, although the situation has been gradually improving. According to various reports, women in India have faced lower internet penetration rates and digital literacy levels compared to men.
One of the contributing factors to the gender gap in internet access in India is the imbalance in education and literacy rates. Historically, women in certain regions of India have been less literate, which can limit their ability to make good use of and benefit from internet services. Additionally, cultural and social norms, such as restricted mobility or limited access to digital devices, have also affected women’s internet access.
Efforts have been made to address these problems and bridge the gap in internet access in India. The government has launched initiatives like Digital India, which aims to provide affordable internet access and digital services to all citizens, including women. Non-profit organizations and community-based projects have also been working to improve digital literacy among women and provide them with the necessary skills to access and utilize the internet effectively.
Despite the efforts and advances made, this space between men and women’s net access is still grave. Ongoing endeavors to promote digital literacy, affordability, and gender balance in the digital space are crucial to ensuring that women have equal opportunities to access and benefit from this technology that is so vital in our times in India.
Digital India
Digital India is a government project commenced by the Government of India with the vision to transform the country into a digitally empowered society and a knowledge economy. Launched in 2015, it aims to provide digital infrastructure and literacy, as well as deliver various online services to the people of the nation.
The project focuses on three key areas: the creation of said infrastructure, including the provision of high-speed internet connectivity to rural areas; delivering government services digitally to enhance efficiency and transparency; and promoting digital literacy to empower citizens with digital skills.
Despite its ambitious goals, Digital India has faced several criticisms. Some critics argue that the project primarily benefits urban areas, leaving rural and marginalized communities behind in terms of access to the aforementioned infrastructure and services. The digital divide, the gap between those who have access to digital technologies and those who do not, remains a pressing perturbation.
Privacy and data safety have also been raised as concerns. The increasing digitization of services poses questions about the collection, storage, and usage of citizens’ personal information. Commentators argue that the government needs to ensure robust data protection laws and mechanisms to protect the people’s privacy.
Moreover, skeptics question the efficacy and implementation of various digital enterprises under Digital India. They highlight issues such as lack of internet connectivity in remote areas, inadequate digital literacy programs, and technological challenges faced by the population, particularly older individuals and those with limited resources.
While Digital India has made significant progress in improving access to digital services and infrastructure, addressing these criticisms is crucial to ensure inclusive and equitable digital transformation across the nation.
How can Internet access aid women?
Internet access can be tremendously helpful to women in various ways; it can bring about new chances, knowledge, people, connectivity, and even something as simple as a discount. Here are some ways in which internet access can be beneficent to women:
Education: The internet provides access to a fountain of educational resources, including online courses, tutorials, and research materials. Women can use the internet to enhance their knowledge, pursue distance learning, acquire new skills, and overcome barriers to education. It offers opportunities for lifelong learning and personal development.
Employment and Entrepreneurship: The internet has opened up avenues for remote work, freelance opportunities, and online entrepreneurship. Women can leverage internet platforms to find jobs, build professional networks, and create their own businesses. With the plethora of ways to market them on the net, these businesses can enlarge their audience and spread. It also provides them with flexible work options and financial independence.
Information and Awareness: The internet serves as a valuable source of information on various topics, including health, legal rights, financial literacy, and social issues. Women can access critical information and resources to make informed decisions about their health, well-being, and rights. Online platforms and communities also facilitate sharing experiences, raising awareness, and advocating for gender equality and women’s rights.
Social Connections and Support: Internet access enables women to connect with others, fostering social networks and support systems. Online platforms, social media, and discussion forums offer spaces for women to engage, share experiences, seek advice, and find solidarity with others facing similar challenges. It can combat isolation and provide emotional support.
Access to Services: The internet can facilitate access to essential services, especially in areas where they may be limited. Women can get reach to healthcare information, telemedicine services, and connect with doctors remotely. Online banking and financial services enable access to financial resources and empower women to manage their finances more independently.
Civic Engagement and Activism: Internet access provides a platform for women to engage in civic participation, express their opinions, and advocate for social and political causes. Women can use social media, online petitions, and digital platforms to raise awareness, mobilize communities, and influence change. It amplifies their voices and enables collective action.
Personal Development and Entertainment: The internet offers a wide range of resources for personal growth, hobbies, and entertainment. Women can view content related to their interests, explore creative outlets, and find inspiration through online communities, blogs, videos, and podcasts, as well as give that inspiration to others.
Internet access can bridge gaps, break down barriers, and empower women to participate more fully in society. It plays a crucial role in promoting gender equality, enabling women to access information, resources, and opportunities that were previously inaccessible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bridging the gender gap in internet access is crucial for empowering women and promoting gender equality. The internet provides women with valuable tools, resources, and opportunities that can transform their lives. Through improved digital literacy, enhanced infrastructure, affordable access, and efforts to address cultural barriers, we can create a more inclusive digital society.
The availability of internet resources enables women to access education, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities. It provides them with information, awareness, and support on critical issues. Women can connect with others, foster social networks, and engage in civic participation. The internet empowers women to make informed decisions, pursue personal development, and access essential services.
However, achieving meaningful progress requires collective action. Governments, organizations, communities, and individuals must work together to promote digital literacy, affordability, and gender equality. By ensuring that women have equal opportunities to access and benefit from the internet, we can unlock their potential, amplify their voices, and create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
In rural India, limited internet connectivity has hindered progress and development. However, a game-changing technology called “Air Fiber” is set to transform the situation. In this article, we will explore Air Fiber, its advantages, how it works, and its potential impact on rural communities. Leading brands like Mikrotik, Cambium, and Ubiquiti are spearheading this innovative solution.
Advantages of Air Fiber
Rapid Deployment: Air Fiber can be quickly installed, making it ideal for areas where traditional wired infrastructure is challenging to implement.
Scalability: The network can easily expand to meet growing demands, accommodating more users without significant investments.
Cost-Effectiveness: By eliminating the need for physical cables, Air Fiber reduces overall setup costs, critical for resource-limited regions.
Reliability: With advanced radio technologies and redundancy measures, Air Fiber ensures a consistent and dependable internet connection.
How Air Fiber Works
Air Fiber operates using radio waves to transmit data over long distances without the need for physical cables. The technology relies on a transmitter to send data in the form of radio signals, which are captured and converted back into data by a receiver at the user’s end. By employing various radio frequencies and advanced modulation techniques, Air Fiber can efficiently overcome obstacles like hills and buildings, providing high-speed internet connectivity even in remote and challenging terrains.
Impact on Rural India
Education: High-speed internet will bridge the educational divide, enabling e-learning opportunities for students in rural areas.
Healthcare: Telemedicine facilities can be established, improving healthcare access for rural residents.
Agriculture: Farmers can access vital information online, enhancing productivity and decision-making in farming practices.
Entrepreneurship: Air Fiber empowers small businesses to reach larger markets and engage in e-commerce activities.
Conclusion
Air Fiber holds immense potential in revolutionizing rural India’s connectivity. With leading brands like Mikrotik, Cambium, and Ubiquiti supporting this technology, we can look forward to a future where every corner of rural India thrives with seamless internet access. This transformation will bridge the digital divide and drive socio-economic growth and prosperity for rural communities.
In today’s rapidly advancing digital age, the world is witnessing unprecedented growth in information and communication technology (ICT). However, amidst this digital revolution, a profound inequality persists – the digital divide. This divide represents the gap between individuals who have access to ICT and those who do not. It encompasses not only the lack of internet connectivity but also limited access to computers, smartphones, and digital literacy. Shockingly, even in the 21st century, approximately 40 percent of the global population remains offline, exacerbating the disparities in economic, social, and political opportunities. This article explores the implications of the digital divide on various aspects of human life and highlights the urgency of bridging this gap.
Below, we will present you with a short video on the digital divide.
The digital divide refers to the stark disparity in access to information and communication technology (ICT) between different segments of society. It encompasses individual limitations in owning digital devices, accessing the internet, and lacking digital literacy skills. Societally, it manifests as unequal access to digital infrastructure and services, affecting communities and regions worldwide. The divide intersects with income, gender, age, and ethnicity, disproportionately affecting vulnerable and marginalized groups. Bridging the digital divide is essential for promoting social justice and inclusive development. As technology becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, digital access is no longer a luxury but a fundamental necessity for economic opportunities and active participation in society. Addressing this divide requires concerted efforts from governments, businesses, and civil society to ensure equitable access to digital resources and empower individuals to thrive in the digital age.
The Impact on Economic Access
Access to digital technology plays a pivotal role in shaping an individual’s economic potential. With the internet as a gateway to a vast realm of information and market opportunities, those who lack digital access are often left behind. Businesses, especially small enterprises, face considerable barriers to growth and innovation when they are disconnected from the digital world. Access to online markets, financial services, and e-commerce platforms can drastically improve their economic prospects. Addressing the digital divide is crucial for fostering inclusive economic development and reducing the economic disparities that perpetuate poverty.
The Social Dimension
In an increasingly interconnected world, social interactions are significantly influenced by digital technology. Social networks, online communities, and digital platforms facilitate communication, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing. Being digitally excluded can lead to feelings of isolation and hinder social engagement, particularly for marginalized communities. Additionally, access to educational resources and distance learning opportunities are often dependent on digital infrastructure. As education is a powerful tool for upward mobility, the digital divide can exacerbate existing social inequalities.
Political Implications
Digital access has transformed political participation, enabling citizens to engage in the democratic process, access information, and express their opinions. The digital divide, however, poses a serious threat to the principle of equal representation. Without access to ICT, marginalized communities may find it challenging to voice their concerns, advocate for their rights, and hold public officials accountable. As a result, the digital divide can undermine the democratic fabric of societies, stifling the free flow of information and limiting citizens’ ability to actively participate in governance.
Access to Opportunities
In the modern job market, digital skills have become essential for employability and career advancement. The lack of access to digital resources and training can create significant barriers for job seekers, preventing them from accessing a wide range of employment opportunities. This disparity reinforces existing socio-economic gaps and perpetuates cycles of poverty. Bridging the digital divide is crucial for fostering a skilled workforce that can thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Conclusion
The digital divide is not merely an issue of access to technology but a complex web of socio-economic inequalities that shape our global society. With almost 40 percent of the global population still offline, we must recognize the urgency in addressing this gap. Bridging the digital divide is not a luxury but a necessity for creating a more equitable and inclusive world.
Governments, non-governmental organizations, and private sector entities must work together to invest in digital infrastructure, provide affordable internet access, and promote digital literacy programs. By empowering individuals with digital access, we can unlock their full potential and enable them to participate more fully in economic, social, and political spheres. Only through collective efforts can we bridge the digital divide and build a more just and prosperous future for all.
In this series, I talk about the current state of digital divide and rural broadband access in India as on 2021.
It’s 2021. We have been vocal about this issue for almost a decade now. Thousands of Indian villages suffer because of lack of broadband and Internet access.
With COVID and the economic lockdown for the lower and middle class, this country is facing one its biggest crisis in the century. There is an urgent need to enable information and Internet access for every single citizen of this country.
How do we expect children to be a part of online education without Internet access?
How do we expect people to participate in a digital economy without having access to Internet?
Does e-governance simply mean making new b.s. apps to give people an illusion that something is being done?
Why don’t we treat Internet access as a human right in this country?
To elevate poverty and misery from this country – we have to ensure equal opportunity to access information for all. This means, connecting every last village with broadband Internet access. We are one of the youngest countries in the world with tremendous potential to not just uplift ourselves but to also raise the standards for this entire sub-continent. We rise despite our government, not because of it.
From student protests to farmer protests, the government of India has time and again demonstrated its oppressive nature by blocking or censoring the Internet. However, nothing has been done to provide last mile connectivity to rural areas. The apathetic nature of our ruling classes do not consider the plight of the weakest members of our society. At this stage, for those of us who remain conscious, it’s up to us to empower the weakest and the most vulnerable members of our countries with infrastructure and educational access.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Zk1C6IDhLw] At Muft Internet, one of the trusted internet bandwidth providers in India, we have been teaching locals from different remote villages in India how to set up their own community broadband without ANY help from big telco or the government. Both of which focus on quantity and profit instead of inclusivity while designing access solutions for the masses.
Since the lockdown hit last year, our team has been working round the clock to share this knowledge. Mobilizing young Indians to take charge of their own village’s broadband access. There is no point waiting for the government or big telcos to set up infrastructure in these remote and forgotten places.
We are one of the lowest ranking countries for Internet speeds and freedom. We have some of most wide-spread Internet censorship. A mark of a strong democracy and a civilised society is how they treat Internet access for it’s citizens. In India, we simply lack this.
Some of the villages we got broadband Internet to last year didn’t have 2g or any mobile network to communicate. We have been getting 100s of phones calls every week from villagers asking us to help them set up community broadband access for their villages, they wanted to know how to get wifi connection in village. It’s been impossible for us to reach all of these places at the same time considering our small research and technical team that works pro-bono.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpMl04ooAps] In light of this situation, we are launching our own digital education platform that aims to teach young Indians how to set up and run their rural broadband network. A simple 100 hour free course with a centralised helpline that will possibly transform the state of access in this country in time to come.
