The Widening Digital Divide

The recently released National Sample Survey report provides interesting insights on the progress made in some Sustainable Development Goal indicators. An important aspect highlighted in the “Multiple Indicator Survey-NSS 78th Round Report 2020–2021” is the progress made in improving the information and communication technology (ICT) or digital skills. Gauging the diffusion of ICT skills is an important indicator for assessing the level of preparedness for the development of the digital economy and more importantly the gains made in closing the digital divide or digital gap in the distribution of such skills, especially across gender and regions.

This is important as the digital divide, which broadly refers to the gap between those with the ability to access and use internet services and those without it, has emerged as a major concern that constrains the growth of the digital economy. This divide, which is multifaceted, limits the use of internet services for various activities by different segments, especially the disadvantaged groups and regions. Consequently, it results in the exclusion of large sections of the population from benefiting from the gains of the growth of the digital economy.