Navigating the Digital Divide in India: A Comprehensive Guide

Abstract

Purpose of the study: This paper attempts to gain insights into the manner in which the first-level digital divide contributes to the more pervasive second-level divide associated with the manner of and motivation for digital usage across social groups. Methodology: The study used data from the Government of India’s NSS 75TH round survey (2017-18) on social consumption and education. Binary logistic regression is used as a statistical method that can estimate the probability of an outcome, such as affordability or accessibility, based on one or more predictor variables.  Main Findings: Findings reveal that, for marginalized groups, class location plays an underlying role in propagating the first-level digital divide. Furthermore, when assessing the second-level divide in digital accessibility, socio-cultural factors perpetuate inequalities. The variable of gender shows that improved financial capacity to afford digital devices does not guarantee increased access to digital skills. Gender-based stereotypes act as deterrents, steering women away from engaging with computers. Applications of this study: The research seeks to highlight digital exclusion among vulnerable communities, aiming to address this gap to fulfill the primary objective of the Sustainable Development Goal "Leaving No One Behind" and thereby contribute to the establishment of an equitable society. Novelty/Originality of this study: Many existing studies rely on outdated data, prompting a need for a fresh perspective using updated datasets. This study seeks to investigate digital disparities within different segments of Indian society, utilizing recent data from a nationally representative survey. Given the absence of information on the digital divide at the second stage in India, this study addresses India’s digital inequality crisis by exclusively examining the first level, which revolves around the affordability and physical ownership of digital resources.