Digital Divide in India: Prospects and Challenges

Abstract

Technology plays an important role in producing new ideas and removing barriers between the people. In the recent decade, the notion of ‘digital divide’ has been comprehensively and widely researched and has attracted large spectrum of public speculation for its economic, social and political consequences. Studies have revealed that the gap existing between those who have access to ICTs and those who do not have access creates exclusion, threatening social integration and hamper economic growth. This article discusses initiatives taken by government of India towards the access to digital information and the critical role played by numerous nationwide programs in bridging the digital divide. The article also focuses on some of the key impediments and barriers to digitization and the need for strong determination, good policy–making and political support in bridging the digital divide in the country (India).