The rise of technology has brought sweeping changes to our lives. From artificial intelligence & ecommerce giants to e-learning platforms, from smart agriculture to digital payments, technology is reshaping societies across the globe. This technology revolution is a tale of two realities for a nation like India. On one hand, we see IT professionals in Bengaluru developing cutting-edge software for global companies. On the other hand, we find villagers in remote areas who have never used a smartphone. As technology reshapes our nation, we need to ask: Is digital progress lifting all Indians equally, or is it creating a deeper divide between the educated and the poor?

The Educated Thrive: Success Story

The various advantages of technology have resulted in India's tech success. Its role in shaping the country’s infrastructure & development cannot be denied. Our country has become a global IT powerhouse, with technology transforming various sectors. The best example is the rise of UPI (Unified Payments Interface) has revolutionized how Indians handle money. From local vegetable vendors to high-end stores, digital payments have become commonplace

For the educated, especially urban elite, technology is a powerful enabler. Online learning platforms like Byjus, and Unacademy offer access to world-class education, irrespective of geographical location. Remote work opportunities have shattered geographical barriers, allowing professionals to connect with global markets. Fintech solutions have revolutionized personal finance, offering convenient and accessible banking services.

The growth of e-commerce has brought convenience to doorsteps. Companies like Flipkart and Amazon have created thousands of jobs while making products available in smaller cities and towns. Even local businesses have gone digital through platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp Business.

Furthermore, as an advantage of technology, we have seen a rise in gig economy has created new avenues for income generation, particularly for skilled professionals. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Guru connect freelancers with clients worldwide, providing flexibility and earning potential that were previously unimaginable. These show the advantages of technology in India & also globally.

Flip Side – The Struggle To Cope Up

However, this digital revolution hasn't reached everyone equally. Consider these stark realities:

This picture of technological utopia masks a stark reality for a significant portion of the Indian population. Millions remain disconnected from the digital world, lacking access to affordable internet, smartphones, and the digital literacy skills necessary to navigate this increasingly digital landscape.

• Limited Internet Access: Rural India faces significant challenges in terms of internet connectivity. According to NSSO data, only 24% of Indian households have internet access. In rural areas, this number drops to 15%. Low internet penetration, coupled with unreliable networks, severely limits access to online services and information. It reveals how most Indians are effectively cut off from the digital economy.
• Digital Literacy Gap: A significant portion of the population, particularly in rural areas, older generations & among low-income households lack the digital literacy skills to effectively utilize technology. This includes struggling with basic skills like using basic technological tasks like using smartphones or accessing government services online, using search engines, navigating online platforms, and understanding online safety.

• Lack of Affordable Technology: A basic smartphone costs around ₹5,000-₹8,000, which is nearly a month's income for many poor families. Add to this the monthly internet charges, and technology becomes a luxury many cannot afford. Not to forget the cost of particular software or subscription plans for learning, paid data resources and much more. Thus High costs of smartphones and data plans create a significant barrier to access for low-income households.

The Consequences of the Digital Divide

The rise of technology has surely created a digital divide, which has far-reaching consequences:

• Limited access to information: Lack of internet access restricts access to crucial information, such as government schemes, healthcare advice, and market prices for agricultural produce.

• Exclusion from the job market: In an increasingly digital economy, those lacking digital skills are at a severe disadvantage in the job market. This can lead to increased unemployment and poverty.

• Impact on Employment Opportunities : Fields like AI, blockchain, and digital marketing are booming. Startups and multinational companies are hiring talent from premier institutions like IITs and IIMs. Whereas Automation in sectors like textiles, logistics, and agriculture is replacing human workers. For instance, harvesting machines reduce the need for laborers, leaving many without a livelihood.

• Reduced access to essential services: Online platforms are increasingly being used to deliver essential services such as healthcare, education, and government services. Those without internet access are effectively excluded from these services.

• Widening social and economic disparities: The digital divide exacerbates existing social and economic disparities, creating a two-tiered society where the digitally connected thrive while the disconnected are left behind.

Bridging the Digital Divide: A Call to Action

Addressing the digital divide to control the impact of technology requires a multi-pronged approach:

• Expand internet connectivity: Government initiatives are crucial to expand internet connectivity to rural areas, through initiatives like BharatNet and public-private partnerships.
• Promote digital literacy: Government and non-governmental organizations must collaborate to provide digital literacy training programs, particularly for women, youth, and marginalized communities.
• Reduce the cost of technology: Government subsidies and initiatives are needed to make smartphones and data plans more affordable for low-income households.
• Develop inclusive technologies: Focus on developing technologies that are accessible and user-friendly for all, including those with disabilities.
• Empower local communities: Encourage community-based initiatives to promote digital inclusion, such as community internet centers and digital literacy programs.

Government Initiatives and Their Reach

The Indian government has launched several initiatives to bridge this digital divide:

Digital India: Launched in 2015, this flagship program aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society. While it has succeeded in creating digital infrastructure, its benefits haven't reached all segments equally.

PM WANI (Wi-Fi Access Network Interface): This scheme aims to bring public Wi-Fi to villages. However, implementation remains slow, and many are unaware of such facilities even where they exist.

PMGDISHA (Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan): This digital literacy program targets rural areas but faces challenges in reaching the most vulnerable populations.

Conclusion

In India, the rise of technology is a double-edged sword, representing both immense opportunities and significant challenges. While the educated urban elite reap the benefits of this digital revolution, millions remain disconnected and marginalized. Bridging the digital divide is not merely a technological challenge; it is a social and economic imperative. By investing in digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring equitable access to technology, India can harness the power of technology to uplift its most vulnerable citizens and build a truly inclusive digital society.