Despite India's push for a robust digital economy, India faces challenges with regard to digital inclusion. Discuss. Suggest measures to ensure equitable access to digital resources.

India has now over 100 cr +

Internet users and over 80 cr +

Smartphone users; with 20%

GDP coming from digital space

(← MEITY)

Challenges faced in Digital

Inclusion :

(1) Rural- urban divide

(2) Gender level divide (women as

less targeted).

(3) Emerging challenges of E-waste (India: 3rd largest E-waste producer)

(4) Digital Piracy & Theft scams Ex: Digital Arrests

(5) Data privacy & breach Ex: Spywares (Pegasus)

(6) Poor data speed and penetration (as global comparison)

(7) Tech backwardness (Ex: China: 6G deployment)

(8) Recent price hikes in data packs.

(9) Limited Capacity of PSU: BSNL and MTNL (still not deployed 5G)

(10) Regulatory Bottlenecks Ex: Vodafone - Idea case.

measures to ensure Equitable Access

(1) Technology → a) Satellite based Internet for Remote Areas → b) Develop local Area networks(LAN)

(2) Utilize CSCs : Common Service Centres of villages acts as one- stop solution to all Internet needs.

(3) Utilize civil society = For smartphone training = Usage and avenues for marketing

(4) Global collaboration : Ex → BMGF (Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation) trains women & Rural Artisans

Thus, to attain Digital Economy of 20%, India must focus on Digital Empowerment to achieve Sabka saath, Sabka vikas & Sabka Prayaas.