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Understanding the Rural Digital Divide in India
Context: The Public Accounts Committee, chaired by K.C. Venugopal, has expressed concern over poor rural mobile connectivity and directed telecom providers to outline steps for improvement, highlighting persistent issues such as weak networks in border regions and delays in service delivery.
What is the Digital Divide?
- The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals and communities that have access to modern information and communication technologies (ICTs) such as the internet, mobile connectivity, and digital literacy, and those who lack it. In India, this divide is most visible between urban and rural areas.
- According to the Economic Survey 2022-23, internet penetration in urban India stood at nearly 70%, while in rural areas it was just 37%. This disparity restricts access to opportunities in education, healthcare, commerce, and governance for rural citizens.
What Measures Have Been Taken to Enhance Rural Cellular and Internet Services?
The government and regulators have adopted a mix of policy, infrastructure, and innovation measures:
- BharatNet Project: Launched in 2011 (as NOFN) and restructured in 2014, it aims to connect 2.5 lakh gram panchayats with fibre. Phase I connected 1 lakh panchayats, while Phase II continues with state, CPSU, and private models.
- Case Study – Kerala: The Kerala Fibre Optic Network (K-FON) project, a state-led BharatNet model, has successfully provided free internet to BPL households and public institutions, showing the efficacy of local ownership.
- Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF): Used to finance rural telecom projects, especially in uncovered villages.
- National Broadband Mission (2019): Targets universal broadband access by 2025, emphasising both fibre and alternative technologies.
- Telecom Reforms (2021 onwards): Rationalisation of spectrum charges, moratoriums on dues, and incentives for private players to expand rural coverage.
What is the Way Forward for Bridging the Gap?
To achieve true digital inclusion, India must move beyond infrastructure rollout towards sustainable service delivery:
- Local Entrepreneurial Models: Engaging panchayat-level entrepreneurs for last-mile maintenance can enhance accountability.
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for Broadband: Subsidies to rural households for internet use can create demand-driven expansion.
- Satellite and LEO Networks: Leveraging technologies like OneWeb and Starlink in remote regions can complement fibre.
- Outcome Orientation: Shifting from contract-based fibre laying to measurable service delivery (education, telemedicine, e-governance access).
As noted in Economic Survey 2022-23, digital connectivity is a “force multiplier” for rural growth. Bridging the digital divide is not only a matter of infrastructure but also of inclusive development and empowerment.
