(GIST OF KURUKSHETRA) Bridging the Digital Divide

[December-2022]

Bridging the Digital Divide

Context:

The integration of technology-enabled communication and data driven governance are two significant advantages of e-government in India. The internet and mobile technology have made it possible to rapidly transfer large volumes of data, which is the foundation of efficient governance. The use of e-governance increases the transparency of all operational processes. Digital inequality has been a significant concern in contemporary societies.
These variances are a result of differential levels of access to, actual utilisation of, and efficiency in the application of digital resources. Digital resources, especially cutting-edge technology like business analytics, big data, and artificial intelligence, are crucial for communities to make the transition to sustainability. Digital inequality needs to be decreased for digitalized societies to be long-lasting.

Building Infrastructure to Overcome the Digital Divide

The potential for internet technology to revolutionise civilisation calls for action. In order to bridge the digital gap and provide people with inexpensive, all-inclusive access to information, nations must prioritise the development of their communications and IT infrastructure. There remains a lot to be done, particularly in rural and distant places, even though the IT infrastructure and notably the usage of IT have improved. Technologies related to the internet have the potential to alter the social environment. Access to internet knowledge is essential for learning and human development. By lowering prices, boosting efficiency, and raising labour productivity, the internet may help the economy. The internet could be an important instrument in aiding India to reach its goals by preserving stability, boosting viability for the future, and taking accountability.
However, the evidence suggests that the advantages of internet technologies are not equally distributed and that differences between and within nations are widening. Those who are brighter, more connected, and more skilled have disproportionately profited from the internet revolution. Internet connectivity at slower speeds costs more for subscribers in underdeveloped nations. Some countries’ economic development has been hampered by sector-specific levies and tariffs. There is a demand suppression effect brought on by the inability to host or provide material locally due to slow rates and high content costs. To convince potential internet users of the value of the technology, local language materials, and culturally appropriate services are needed. A lot of people, particularly women, claim they don’t use the internet because they lack the requisite skills.

Achieving an Affordable, Inclusive Internet for All

Importance of Infrastructure- ln developing nations, mobile access is crucial to inclusiveness and creativity. Governments and the business sector must collaborate to encourage network sharing and the installation of fiber optic cables to construct other types of infrastructure, such as roads and power lines. To facilitate access, promote innovation, and advance development, governments and regulators must create rules that stimulate competition and boost network investment. To develop and test a full-scale design, installation, and services package for a turnkey broadband network, infrastructure has to be highly developed. Access to public broadband is just the beginning of building a digitally developed country that closes technical divides between citizens and attracts new businesses and development prospects.
Pricing- The facilitation of inexpensive and widespread Internet access at a fair price is the responsibility of policymakers. Eventually, governments can encourage a commercial and regulatory environment that is friendly to digital technology for the private sector. This might enable finance and expedite infrastructure development.
Digital Inclusion and Building Human Capacity Language is a barrier to access. A lesser propensity to own a computer or use the internet is associated with poorer levels of English reading and writing. Nevertheless, English makes up more than half of web content, and the lack of widespread acceptance has lowered the demand for internationalised domain names. People are less likely to go online if there is no helpful content available in a language they can understand. Lack of technical literacy and confidence are two major obstacles for women to go online. Governments and other stakeholders must support the ability of SMEs and women to produce locally relevant content. Education and digital literacy programs are essenti.al to equip tomorrow’s software developers, local content creators, and policymakers with the abilities they need to contribute to and profit from the information society as creators rather than just consumers.
Measuring Access- For determining effective policy responses, having a current, high-quality information is essential. Making informed decisions about how to solve digital disparities can benefit all stakeholders. Knowing how many people are connected, how they are clicking, and the effects of being connected can help. National statistical organisations should systematically gather data on Internet access by gender. To create uniform measures, governments should allocate more funds and collaborate with the relevant parties.

Conclusion:

The digital revolution will include technological advancements, but it will also require a comprehensive approach that offers clients dependable, rapid, accessible, and customized services. The public sectors of many countries are not prepared for this change. Traditional methods may not apply, so a paradigm shift in strategic thinking, law, and regulation may be necessary.
While e-government focuses on creating online services, the future will center on how digital government may change governance by harnessing societal creativity and resilience to advance Sustainable Development Goals.