A staggering 47% of India's population remains disconnected from the digital world, with women facing an even greater barrier to access. This digital divide, as highlighted by GSMA, is a critical issue that threatens to hinder India's progress towards inclusive growth.
The reasons for this gap are multifaceted, according to Julian Gorman, Head of Asia Pacific at GSMA. He cites the high cost of devices and a lack of technical skills as major contributors.
"Nearly half of Indians are offline, and this disparity is particularly pronounced for women. We must address this digital gender divide urgently to ensure no one is left behind in the digital age," Gorman emphasized.
GSMA's research, as presented in their report, paints a picture of India's digital economy as a rising star. It has grown exponentially, reaching $370 billion in 2023, and is projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2030. However, this growth trajectory is not without its challenges.
The report identifies key areas where India lags, including research and development investment, private sector innovation, and skilled professional retention. These gaps, if not addressed, could stall India's progress towards its ambitious digital sovereignty goals by 2047.
"India risks losing its talented professionals to global competitors if it doesn't act swiftly to address these issues. This could result in a 'brain drain dividend' that benefits other nations instead of fueling India's domestic growth," the report warns.
This is a critical juncture for India's digital future. Will India rise to the challenge and bridge these gaps, or will it fall short of its potential? The answers to these questions will shape India's digital destiny in the coming years. What are your thoughts on this digital divide and India's path forward? Feel free to share your insights and opinions in the comments below!
