case study on digital india

Digital India: Technology to transform a connected nation

With more than half a billion internet subscribers, India is one of the largest and fastest-growing markets for digital consumers, but adoption is uneven among businesses. As digital capabilities improve and connectivity becomes omnipresent, technology is poised to quickly and radically change nearly every sector of India’s economy. That is likely to both create significant economic value and change the nature of work for tens of millions of Indians.

In Digital India: Technology to transform a connected nation (PDF–3MB), the McKinsey Global Institute highlights the rapid spread of digital technologies and their potential value to the Indian economy by 2025 if government and the private sector work together to create new digital ecosystems.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

India's consumers are taking a digital leap, uneven adoption among india's businesses has opened a digital gap, measuring the potential economic impact of digital applications in 2025, building digital ecosystems that connect, automate, and analyze, what are the implications for companies, policy makers, and individuals.

By many measures, India is well on its way to becoming a digitally advanced country. Propelled by the falling cost and rising availability of smartphones and high-speed connectivity, India is already home to one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing bases of digital consumers and is digitizing faster than many mature and emerging economies.

India had 560 million internet subscribers in September 2018, second only to China. Digital services are growing in parallel (Exhibit 1). Indians download more apps—12.3 billion in 2018—than any country except China and spend more time on social media—an average of 17 hours a week —than social media users in China and the United States. The share of Indian adults with at least one digital financial account has more than doubled since 2011, to 80 percent , thanks in large part to the government’s mass financial-inclusion program, Jan-Dhan Yojana.

To put this digital growth in context, we analyzed 17 mature and emerging economies across 30 dimensions of digital adoption since 2014 and found that India is digitizing faster than all but one other country in the study, Indonesia. Our Country Digital Adoption Index covers three elements: digital foundation (cost, speed, and reliability of internet service); digital reach (number of mobile devices, app downloads, and data consumption), and digital value, (how much consumers engage online by chatting, tweeting, shopping, or streaming). India’s score rose by 90 percent since 2014 (Exhibit 2). In absolute terms, its score is low—32 on a scale of 100—so there remains ample room to grow.

Public- and private-sector actions have driven digital growth so far

The public sector has been a strong catalyst for India’s rapid digitization. The government’s efforts to ramp up Aadhaar, the national biometric digital identity program, has played a major role. Aadhaar has enrolled 1.2 billion people since it was introduced in 2009, making it the single largest digital ID program in the world, hastening the spread of other digital services. For example, almost 870 million bank accounts were linked to Aadhaar by February 2018, compared with 399 million in April 2017 and 56 million in January 2014. Likewise, the Goods and Services Tax Network, established in 2013, brings all transactions of about 10.3 million indirect tax-paying businesses onto one digital platform, creating a powerful incentive for businesses to digitize their operations.

At the same time, private sector innovation has helped bring internet-enabled services to millions of consumers and made online usage more accessible. For example, Reliance Jio’s strategy of bundling virtually free smartphones with mobile-service subscriptions has spurred innovation and competitive pricing. Data costs have plummeted by more than 95 percent since 2013 and fixed-line download speeds quadrupled between 2014 and 2017. As a result, mobile data consumption per user grew by 152 percent annually—more than twice the rates in the United States and China (Exhibit 3).

Global and local digital businesses have recognized the opportunity in India and are creating services tailored to its consumers and unique operating conditions. Media companies are making content available in India’s 22 official languages, for example. And by tailoring its mobile payments and commerce platform to India’s market, Alibaba-backed Paytm has registered more than 100 million electronic “Know Your Customer”-compliant mobile wallet users and nine million merchants .

The pace of growth is helping India’s poorer states to narrow the digital gap with wealthier states. Lower-income states like Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand are expanding internet infrastructure such as base tower stations and increasing the penetration of internet services to new customers faster than wealthier states. Uttar Pradesh alone added close to 36 million internet subscribers between 2014 and 2018. Ordinary Indians in many parts of the country—including small towns and rural areas—can now read the news online, order food delivery via a phone app, video chat with a friend (Indians log 50 million video-calling minutes a day on WhatsApp), shop at a virtual retailer, send money to a family member using their phone, or watch a movie streamed to a handheld device.

Despite these advances, India has plenty of room to grow. Only about 40 percent of the populace has an internet subscription. While many people have digital bank accounts, 90 percent of all retail transactions in India, by volume, are still made with cash. E-commerce revenue is growing by more than 25 to 30 percent per year, yet only 5 percent of trade in India is done online, compared with 15 percent in China in 2015. Looking ahead, India’s digital consumers are poised for robust growth.

We surveyed more than 600 large and small companies in India to gauge the level of digitization in various sectors as well as the underlying traits, activities, and mind-sets that drive digitization at the firm level. We used each company’s answers to score its level of digitization and then ranked them in the MGI India Firm Digitization Index. Companies in the top quartile, which we characterize as digital leaders, had an average score of 58.2 (relative to a maximum potential value of 100), while those in the bottom quartile, the digital laggards, averaged 33.2. The median score was 46.2. A higher score indicates that the company is using digital in its day-to-day operations more extensively (implementing CRM systems, accepting digital modes of payments, etc.) and in a more organized manner (having separate analytics team, centralized digital organization, etc.) than the ones with lower scores.

Our survey found that, on average, leaders outscored others by 70 percent on strategy, 40 percent on organization, and 31 percent on capabilities (Exhibit 4).

Differences within sectors are higher than those across sectors. While some sectors have more digital leaders than others, top-quartile companies are found in all sectors—even those considered resistant to technology, such as farming or construction. Conversely, sectors with more leaders, such as information and communication technology, still have companies in the bottom quartile.

However, India’s digital leaders generally do share common traits in terms of the following areas:

• Digital strategy: Leaders are 30 percent more likely than bottom-quartile companies to fully integrate digital and global strategies and 2.3 times more likely to sell on e-commerce platforms. Leaders are 3.5 times more likely to say digital disruptions led them to change core operations and 40 percent more likely to say digital is a top priority for investment.
• Digital organization: Leaders are 14.5 times more likely than bottom-quartile companies to centralize digital management, and five times more likely to have a stand-alone, properly staffed analytics team. Top-quartile firms are also 70 percent more likely than bottom-quartile firms to say their CEO is “supportive and directly engaged” in digital initiatives.
• Digital capabilities: Leaders are 2.6 times more likely than bottom-quartile firms to use digital tools to manage customer relationships and 2.5 times more likely to use digital tools to coordinate the management of their core business operations.

The gap between digital leaders and other firms is not insurmountable. In some cases, even when the gap is large, lagging companies may be able to begin closing it by digitizing in small, relatively simple ways. Social media marketing is a good example. While bottom-quartile firms are much less likely than leaders to use social media, e-commerce, or listing platforms, each of these channels is cheap and easily accessible and there is little to stop a business owner with a high-speed internet connection and a smartphone from taking advantage of them.

For now, large companies (defined in our survey as having revenue greater than 5 billion rupees, or about $70 million) are more likely to have the financial resources and expertise needed to invest in some advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. But growing high-speed internet connectivity and falling data costs may soon make some of these technologies available to small-business owners and even sole proprietors.

Indeed, our survey found small businesses are ahead of big companies in terms of accepting digital payments: 94 percent accept payment by debit or credit card, compared with only 79 percent of big companies; for digital wallets the difference was 78 percent versus 49 percent.

Our survey found 70 percent of small businesses use their own websites to reach clients, compared with 82 percent of big companies. Small businesses are less likely than big companies to buy display ads on the web (37 percent versus 66 percent), but they are ahead of big companies in connecting with customers via social media, and more likely to use search-engine optimization. More than 60 percent of the small firms surveyed use LinkedIn to hire talent, and about half believe that most of their employees today need basic digital skills. While only 51 percent of smaller firms said they “extensively” sell goods and services on their websites (compared with 73 percent of big businesses), small businesses use e-commerce platforms and other digital sales channels just as much as large firms and are equally likely to receive orders through digital means like WhatsApp.

Companies that innovate and digitize rapidly will be better placed to take advantage of India’s large, connected market, which could include up to 700 million smartphone users and 840 million internet users by 2023. In the context of rapidly improving technology and falling data costs, technology-enabled business models could become pervasive over the next decade. That will likely create significant economic value.

We consider economic impact in three broad areas. First are core digital sectors, such as IT-BPM, digital communications, and electronics manufacturing. Second are newly digitizing sectors such as financial services, agriculture, healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing, which are not traditionally considered part of India’s digital economy but have the potential to rapidly adopt new technologies. Third are government services and labor markets, which can use digital technologies in new ways.

Core digital sectors could double their GDP contribution by 2025

India’s core digital sectors accounted for about $170 billion—or 7 percent—of GDP in 2017–18. This comprises value added from core digital sectors: $115 billion from IT-BPM, $45 billion from digital communications, and $10 billion from electronics manufacturing. Based on industry revenue, cost structures, and growth trends, we estimate these sectors could grow significantly faster than GDP: value-added contribution in 2025 could range from $205 billion to $250 billion for IT-BPM, from $100 billion to $130 billion for electronics manufacturing, and $50 billion to $55 billion for digital communications. The total, between $355 billion and $435 billion, may account for 8 to 10 percent of India’s 2025 GDP.

Newly digitizing sectors are already creating added value

Alongside these already digitized sectors, India stands to create more value if it can nurture new and emerging digital ecosystems in sectors such as agriculture, education, energy, financial services, healthcare, and logistics. The benefits of digital applications in each of these newly digitizing sectors are already visible. For example, in logistics, tracking vehicles in real time has enabled shippers to reduce fleet turnaround time by 50 to 70 percent . Similarly, digitized supply chains help companies reduce their inventory by up to 20 percent. Farmers can cut the cost of growing crops by 15 to 20 percent using data on soil conditions that enables them to minimize the use of fertilizers and other inputs.

Digital can improve government services and the efficiency of India’s job market

Digital technologies can also create significant value in areas such as government services and the job market. Moving government subsidy transfers, procurement, and other transactions online can enhance public-sector efficiency and productivity, while creating online labor marketplaces could considerably improve the efficiency of India’s fragmented and largely informal job market.

To unlock this value will require widespread adoption and implementation. The economic value will be proportionate to the extent digital applications permeate production processes, from supply chains to delivery channels. Our estimates of potential economic value depend on each sector’s digital adoption rate by 2025; where the readiness of India’s firms and government agencies is low and significant effort will be required to catalyze broad-based digitization, adoption may be low, between 20 to 40 percent of the potential. Where private-sector readiness is high and government policy already supports large-scale digitization, adoption could be as high as 60 to 80 percent.

In all, we estimate that India’s newly digitizing sectors have the potential to create sizable economic value by 2025: from $130 billion to $170 billion in financial services, including digital payments; $50 billion to $65 billion in agriculture; $25 billion to $35 billion each in retail and e-commerce, logistics and transportation; and $10 billion in energy and healthcare (Exhibit 5). Digitizing more government services and benefit transfers could yield economic value of $20 billion to $40 billion, while digital skill-training and job-market platforms could yield up to $70 billion. While these ranges underscore large potential value, realization of this value is not guaranteed: losing momentum on government policies that enable the digital economy would mean India could realize less than half of the potential value by 2025.

Digital can create jobs but will require new skills and some labor redeployment

Changes brought by digital adoption will disrupt India’s labor force as well as its industries. We estimate that as many as 60 million to 65 million new jobs could be created from the direct and indirect impact of productivity-boosting digital applications. These jobs could be enabled in industries as diverse as construction and manufacturing, agriculture, trade and hotels, IT-BPM, finance, media and telecom, and transport and logistics.

However, some work will be automated or rendered obsolete. We estimate that all or parts of 40 million to 45 million existing jobs could be affected by 2025. These include data-entry operators, bank tellers, clerks, and insurance claims- and policy-processing staff. Millions of people who currently hold these positions will need to be retrained and redeployed.

Jobs of the future will be more skill-intensive. Along with rising demand for skills in emerging digital technologies (such as the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and 3-D printing), demand for higher cognitive, social, and emotional skills , such as creativity, unstructured problem solving, teamwork, and communication, will also increase. These are skills that machines, for now, are unable to master. As the technology evolves and develops, individuals will need to constantly learn and relearn marketable skills throughout their lifetime. India will need to create affordable and effective education and training programs at scale, not just for new job market entrants but also for midcareer workers.

To capture the potential economic value that we size at a macro level, businesses will need to deliver digital technologies at a micro level: that is, how they use digital technologies to fundamentally alter day-to-day activities.

Three digital forces will drive these shifts: One is the greater ease with which people can connect, collaborate, transact, and share information; another is the opportunity for companies to increase productivity by automating routine tasks; the third is the greater ease with which organizations can analyze data to make insights and improve decision making.

The interplay of these forces will create new data ecosystems, which in turn will spur new products, services, and channels in virtually every business sector, and create economic value for consumers as well as those members of the ecosystem that best adapt their business models.

To highlight the kinds of business model changes that companies should predict and prepare for, we examine how this connect-automate-analyze trio can play out across four sectors: agriculture, healthcare, retail, and logistics.

Digital agriculture

India’s farms are small, averaging a little more than one hectare in size, with yields ranging from 50 to 90 percent of those in Brazil, China, and other developing economies. Many factors contribute to this. Indian farmers have a dearth of farm machinery and relatively little data on soil, weather, and other variables. Poor storage and logistics allows produce to go to waste before reaching consumers— $15 billion worth in 2013.

Digital technology can alter this ecosystem in several ways. Precision advisory services—using real-time granular data to optimize inputs such as fertilizer and pesticides—can increase yields by 15 percent or more. After harvest, farmers could use online marketplaces to transact with a larger pool of potential buyers. One such platform, the government’s electronic National Agriculture Market, has helped farmers increase revenue by up to 15 percent . Furthermore, online banking can provide the financial data farmers need to qualify for cheaper bank credit. Digital land records can make crop insurance more available. These and other digital innovations in Indian agriculture can help add $50 billion to $65 billion of economic value by 2025.

Digital healthcare

India has too few doctors, not enough hospital beds, and a low share of state spending on healthcare relative to GDP. While life expectancy has risen to 68.3 years from 37 in 1951, the country still ranks 125th among all nations on this parameter. Indian women are three times as likely to die in childbirth as women in Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa—and ten times as likely as women in the United States.

Digital solutions can help alleviate the shortage of medical professionals by making doctors and nurses more productive. Telemedicine, for example, enables doctors to consult with patients over a digital voice or video link rather in person; this could allow them to see more patients overall and permit doctors in cities to serve patients in rural areas. Telemedicine could also be more cost effective: in trials and pilots, it cut consultation costs by about 30 percent. If telemedicine replaced 30 to 40 percent of in-person outpatient consultations, coupled with digitization in overall healthcare industry, India could save up to $10 billion in 2025.

Digital retail

More than 80 percent of all retail outlets in India—most of them sole proprietors or mom-and-pop shops—operate in the cash-driven informal economy. These businesses do not generate the financial records needed to apply for bank loans, limiting their growth potential. Large retailers have their own sets of challenges. Their reliance on manual store operations and high inventory levels is capital heavy. In many cases, their marketing practices are ineffective, and their prices are static regardless of inventory or demand.

Digital solutions could reshape much of the sector. E-commerce enables retailers to expand without capital-intensive physical stores. Some do not even bother with their own website, relying instead on third-party sites such as Amazon, which offer large, ready pools of shoppers along with logistics, inventory, and payment services, and customer data analytics. E-commerce creates financial records that attest to the creditworthiness of both buyers and sellers, making it cheaper to borrow. Digital marketing can inexpensively engage customers and build brand loyalty. We estimate e-commerce in India will grow faster than sales at brick-and-mortar outlets, allowing digital retail to increase its share of trade from 5 percent now to about 15 percent by 2025.

Digital logistics

India’s economy has grown by at least 6.5 percent annually for the last 20 years. Continuing at that pace of growth would challenge India’s logistics network, which already suffers from a fragmented trucking industry, inadequate railways infrastructure, and a shortage of warehousing. India spends about 14 percent of GDP on logistics, compared with 8 percent in the United States, according to McKinsey estimates.

Digital technology can disrupt even this traditional, physical sector. The government is creating a transactional e-marketplace, the National Logistics Platform , to connect shipping agencies, inland container depots, port authorities, banks, insurers, customs officials, and railways managers. By letting stakeholders share information and coordinate plans, the platform may speed up deliveries, reduce inventory requirements, and smooth order processing. At the same time, private firms are using digital technologies to streamline operations by moving freight booking online, automating customer service, installing tracking devices to monitor cargo movements, using real-time weather and traffic data to map efficient routes, and equipping trucks with internet-linked sensors to alert dispatchers when a vehicle needs servicing. According to McKinsey estimates, digital interventions that result in higher system efficiency and better asset utilization can reduce logistics cost by 15 to 25 percent.

For India to reap the full benefits of digitization—and minimize the pain of transitioning to a digital economy—business leaders, government officials, and individual citizens will need to play distinct roles while also working together.

Business leaders will need to assess how and where digital may disrupt their company and industry and set priorities for how to adapt. Potential disruptions and benefits may be particularly large in India because of its scale, the rapid pace of digitization, and its relatively low productivity in many sectors. To benefit from these changes, companies need to act quickly and decisively to both adapt existing business models and to digitize internal operations. In this context, four imperatives stand out.

First, companies will need to take smart risks as they adapt current business models and adopt new, disruptive ones. Only 46 percent of Indian companies in our survey have an organization-wide plan to change their core operations to react to large-scale disruption.

Second, digital should be front of mind as executives plan. Customers are more digitally literate and have come to expect the convenience and speed of digital, whether shopping online or questioning a bill, but many companies have not reacted. In our survey, 80 percent of firms cite digital as a “top priority,” but only 41 percent say their digital strategy is fully integrated with their overall strategy.

Indian companies will need to invest in building digital capabilities, especially hiring people with the skills needed to start and accelerate a digital transformation.

Third, Indian companies will need to invest in building digital capabilities, especially hiring people with the skills needed to start and accelerate a digital transformation. That is challenging because many of India’s most talented workers emigrate. Companies could work with universities to recruit and develop skilled workers, beginning with digital natives who are currently in universities or have recently finished their studies. Companies also need to build deeper technology understanding and capabilities at all levels, including in the C-suite.

Finally, firms will need to be agile and think of themselves as digital-first organizations. This may need a new attitude that starts with a “test and learn” mind-set that encourages rapid iteration and has a high tolerance for failure and redeployment.

India’s government has done much to encourage digital progress, from rationalizing regulations to improving infrastructure to launching Digital India, an ambitious initiative to double the size of the country’s digital economy. However, much needs to be done for India to realize its full potential.

National and state governments can help by partnering with the private sector to drive digitization, starting by putting the technology at the core of their operations. This helps by providing a market for digital solutions, which generates revenue for providers, encourages digital start-ups, and gives individuals more reasons to go online—whether to receive a cooking-gas subsidy, register a property purchase, or access any other government service.

Governments also can help by creating and administering public data sources that entrepreneurs can use to improve existing products and services and create new ones; by fostering a regulatory environment that supports digital adoption and protects citizens’ privacy; and by facilitating the evolution of labor markets in industries disrupted by automation.

Individuals

Individual Indians are already reaping the benefits of digitization as consumers, but they will need to be cognizant that its disruptive powers can affect their lives and work in other fundamental ways. For example, they will need to be aware of how digitally driven automation may change their work and what skills they will need to thrive in the future. Individuals will also need to become stewards of their personal data and skeptical consumers of information.

While India’s public and private sectors have propelled the country into the forefront of the world’s consumers of internet and digital applications over the past few years, its digitization story is far from over.

Navigating the emerging digital landscape will not be easy, but it is one of the golden keys to India’s future growth and prosperity. Unlocking the opportunities will be a challenge for the government, for businesses large and small, and for individual Indians, and there will be pain along with gains. But if India can accelerate its digital growth trajectory, the rewards will be palpable to millions of businesses and hundreds of millions of its citizens.

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A Systems View Across Time and Space

• Open access
• Published: 14 May 2024

The digital revolution in India: bridging the gap in rural technology adoption

• Stavros Sindakis   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-3542-364X 1 , 2 &
• Gazal Showkat 2  

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship volume  13 , Article number:  29 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

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This study investigates the factors that influence the adoption of digital technology in rural areas of India, with a focus on the Digital India Program (DIP). By analyzing the age distribution, education levels, technology adoption rates, and utilization patterns among rural populations, this research provides insights into the effectiveness of the DIP in targeting specific demographics and promoting digital inclusion. Quantitative data were collected from 400 respondents in Kalahandi District in the Odisha state of India. The data collected were analyzed using SPSS. The findings reveal a predominantly young population in rural India, indicating a workforce with significant economic potential and a higher likelihood of embracing digital technologies. Moreover, the study highlights the high levels of education among respondents, indicating a population well-equipped to understand and benefit from digital initiatives. Unexpectedly, the research shows a higher rate of digital technology adoption among female respondents, challenging the perception of gender disparities in technology access. This finding suggests that the DIP has played a vital role in bridging the gender gap and empowering women in rural areas. Additionally, the study uncovers a trend towards mobile-based services over computer-based services, signaling a shift in technology utilization patterns. This emphasizes the need to prioritize mobile technology and improve connectivity in rural areas to ensure wider access to digital platforms.

Introduction

India’s vision for a digital future is deeply rooted in the integration of technology into governance processes (Malodia et al., 2021 ). Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the crucial role of e-governance in realizing the country’s goals for a digital India (Gupta et al., 2020 ; Rêgo et al., 2021 ). While developed nations have already embraced digital transformation in various sectors, there is a growing recognition in India of the need to digitize collections and enhance information management practices (Mukherjee & Narang, 2022 ). In India, the increasing adoption of technology and the government’s emphasis on digitalization is shaping the changing landscape of information management (Malodia et al., 2021 ). Digitalization efforts are driven by the vision to improve governance processes, enhance access to information, promote transparency, and empower citizens through digital platforms (Holl & Rama, 2023 ). The integration of technology into governance practices holds the potential to streamline operations, improve service delivery, and foster inclusive development (Chen et al., 2022 ). Digital transformation in India is an ongoing journey with significant potential to revolutionize governance, service delivery, and citizen engagement. By leveraging technology and embracing digitalization, India can drive economic growth, enhance access to information and services, and create a more inclusive and empowered society (Barrutia & Echebarria, 2021 ).

Digital technologies, such as cloud computing and mobile applications, have become catalysts for economic growth and citizen empowerment worldwide (Tripathi & Dungarwal, 2020 ). India has made remarkable progress in technology and science, positioning itself as one of the leading economies in the developing world (Lema et al., 2021 ). Recognizing the potential for economic growth through information and communication technology (ICT), the Indian government is positioning itself as a global digital transformation partner for businesses (Ghobakhloo & Iranmanesh, 2021 ). As technological innovations continue to rise, India aims to become one of the digitally transformed nations, offering evident benefits to the government, citizens, professionals, and corporate investors (Manda et al., 2019 ).

Digitalization, as exemplified by India’s Digital India Program (DIP), is explicitly linked to inclusiveness. The DIP’s efforts to provide digital access, resources, and services to all citizens, especially those in rural areas, emphasize inclusivity (Nedungadi et al., 2018 ). By bridging the digital divide, offering digital literacy, and promoting cashless transactions, digitalization contributes to a more inclusive and empowered society by ensuring that even marginalized communities can benefit from digital technologies. To achieve this vision, the Indian government has implemented strategies to transform the nation and create opportunities for its citizens through the utilization of ICT tools, leading to the launch of the Digital India Program (DIP) initiative. The program, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to empower India digitally and generate prospects for its citizens through the harnessing of digital technologies (Mukherjee & Narang, 2022 ). The vision of the Digital India program, as highlighted by Kumar ( 2019 ), is to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. The program focuses on three key areas of vision: (1) digital infrastructure as a core utility to every citizen, (2) governance and services on demand, and (3) digital empowerment of citizens.

Under the vision of digital infrastructure as a core utility for every citizen, the program aims to provide high-speed internet access, mobile phones, and bank accounts to enable citizen participation in the digital and financial space. It also emphasizes the need for a safe and secure cyberspace, a digital identity for every citizen, easy access to Common Service Centers, and shareable private space on a public cloud (Kumar, 2019 ). A digital identity is a secure and unique representation of an individual or entity in the digital world, used for online authentication and access to digital services (Laurent et al., 2015 ). The vision of governance and services on demand entails making citizen entitlements portable and available on the cloud, promoting electronic and cashless financial transactions, integrating services seamlessly across departments, and providing real-time availability of services through online and mobile platforms. The use of geospatial information systems (GIS) for decision support systems and development is also emphasized (Kumar, 2019 ). Digital Empowerment of Citizens involves promoting universal digital literacy, collaborative digital platforms for participative governance, the availability of digital resources and services in Indian languages, and eliminating the need for physical submission of government documents or certificates (Kumar, 2019 ). DIP aims to ensure that all government services are available electronically through an enhanced and effective online infrastructure (Mukherjee & Narang, 2022 ). By increasing internet connectivity and empowering the country with digital technologies, the Indian government aims to achieve electronic governance (e-governance) of public services, leveraging innovative ICT tools (Malhotra & Anand, 2020 ). According to a study by Deloitte (2016), the DIP has the potential to contribute incrementally to India’s GDP by up to 30% by 2025 (Lama, 2019 ). This significant economic impact can be attributed to several factors facilitated by DIP. One key area where the program has made notable progress is in the e-governance sector (Dhal, 2020 ).

Through the implementation of digital platforms and services, the government has streamlined administrative processes, reducing bureaucratic red tape and improving the efficiency of public service delivery (Ingrams et al., 2022 ). Citizens can now access government services and information online, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual processes. This has resulted in increased transparency, reduced corruption, and enhanced accountability in government operations (Kumar et al., 2022 ).

Furthermore, DIP has spurred innovation and entrepreneurship in the technology sector (Vijayan, 2019 ). Initiatives such as Startup India and Standup India have provided a supportive ecosystem for the growth of startups and small businesses, driving job creation and economic development. The program has also encouraged the development of indigenous technologies, promoting self-reliance and positioning India as a global player in the digital space (Godha et al., 2019 ). Another significant impact of DIP is the promotion of financial inclusion through digital payments and banking services (Barik & Sharma, 2019 ). The demonetization drive in 2016 further accelerated the adoption of digital payment methods, leading to a surge in the use of mobile wallets, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), and other digital transaction platforms. This shift towards a cashless economy has not only improved convenience for individuals and businesses but also enhanced transparency and formalization of the economy (Mukhopadhyay & Upadhyay, 2022 ).

Moreover, DIP has focused on bridging the digital divide by ensuring internet connectivity and digital literacy across the country (Asrani, 2022 ). The BharatNet project aims to connect rural areas with high-speed broadband networks, providing access to digital services and empowering communities with knowledge and information. Additionally, initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) have been instrumental in imparting digital literacy skills to rural populations, enabling them to leverage digital tools for personal and professional growth (Kumar et al., 2022 ).

However, despite the progress made, challenges remain in fully realizing the vision of a digital India. One persistent challenge is the last-mile connectivity in remote and rural areas, where infrastructure development is more challenging due to geographical and logistical constraints (Hassan & Rather, 2020 ). Additionally, the affordability of internet services and digital devices remains a barrier for certain sections of society, limiting their access to the benefits of digital technologies (Reddick et al., 2020 ). Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving government, private sector, and civil society collaboration. Continued investment in digital infrastructure, expanding internet connectivity, and reducing the digital divide should be priorities. Simultaneously, efforts should focus on enhancing digital literacy and skills development programs to ensure that all citizens can fully participate in the digital economy (Chandra et al., 2020 ). To address these challenges and ensure the sustainability of the Digital India campaign in rural India, scientific research is needed to understand the extent of digital information access and technological innovation among rural populations (Chenoy et al., 2019 ). Therefore, this research aims to examine the recognition and adoption of technological innovations offered by the Indian government among citizens in rural areas, as well as the factors influencing their adoption and utilization. By shedding light on the issues of the digital divide and digital literacy, these studies aim to provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to develop effective strategies and policies.

The existing literature on digital information access and technological innovation in rural areas of India has some notable gaps that need to be addressed. Firstly, there is a scarcity of empirical studies specifically focused on rural areas, hindering a comprehensive understanding of the extent of digital information access and technology innovation among rural populations. Existing research predominantly concentrates on urban areas or provides a broader overview of the digital landscape in the country. Secondly, there is a need for comprehensive frameworks that can systematically analyze the factors influencing the adoption and utilization of digital information and technological innovation in rural areas. To discern the existing gaps in ICT strategies and policies associated with DIP in India, the research specifically focuses on the Kalahandi rural district of Odisha state. By identifying these gaps, future research can contribute to filling these knowledge voids and provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to develop effective strategies and policies.

RQ1: How and to what extent are people accessing digital information and technology innovation in rural areas? RQ2: What are the factors influencing the adoption and utilization of digital information and technology innovation among rural populations in India?

These research questions are crucial for understanding the current state of digital information access and technological innovation in rural areas. The first research question focuses on the extent to which rural populations are able to access digital information and benefit from technological advancements. This question aims to provide insights into the level of digital penetration and the effectiveness of government initiatives in bridging the digital divide.

The second research question delves into the factors influencing the adoption and utilization of digital information and technology innovation among rural populations. By exploring these factors, such as infrastructure availability, affordability, digital literacy levels, and cultural and social barriers, this research can identify the key determinants that hinder or facilitate the adoption of digital technologies in rural areas.

The findings from this research will inform policymakers and stakeholders about the current situation and challenges faced by rural communities in accessing and utilizing digital information and technology innovations. This knowledge can guide the development of targeted strategies and policies to overcome barriers, improve digital infrastructure, enhance digital literacy programs, and promote widespread adoption of digital technologies in rural India. Ultimately, these research efforts contribute to the sustainable and inclusive development of the Digital India campaign, ensuring that rural populations are empowered to participate fully in the digital economy.

To fulfill the aforementioned objectives, the subsequent sections of this paper are structured as follows: following a concise introduction, the subsequent section provides an extensive account of the literature review, outlining the critical themes and concerns explored within this study. Subsequently, the findings derived from this investigation will offer valuable insights into the extent of digital technology utilization within rural areas. Lastly, the concluding section summarizes the key findings, implications, and recommendations for future research endeavors in this domain.

Review of literature

The review of the literature section of this paper delves into the existing academic research and expert opinions on the digitization of public services in India. It examines the gaps and challenges identified in previous studies, focusing on the digital divide, digital literacy, and the adoption of ICT in rural areas. The section also highlights the need for innovative solutions and strategic approaches to bridge the gaps and promote inclusive development in the country.

Theoretical framework

The theoretical framework of this study is centered on the intricate relationship between digitalization and transaction cost analysis (TCA). Transaction cost analysis, rooted in the seminal works of Williamson ( 2010 ), provides a lens through which to examine the costs associated with conducting economic and social transactions. These transaction costs encompass factors such as information search, negotiation, and enforcement, which can be significant barriers in traditional, paper-based systems. Digitalization, on the other hand, has the potential to drastically reduce these transaction costs by offering efficient and immediate access to information, enabling digital contracting, and automating monitoring and enforcement through electronic records and data analytics (Gielens & Steenkamp, 2019 ).

Within the context of government services, India’s Digital India Program (DIP) exemplifies the transformative power of digitalization in reducing transaction costs. The DIP’s core objectives, such as electronic service delivery, digital resources, and cashless transactions, are inherently linked to the reduction of transaction costs. By enabling citizens to access government services with ease through digital platforms, the program minimizes the need for time-consuming manual processes and paperwork (Demmou & Sagot, 2021 ). Additionally, the enhanced transparency and accountability facilitated by digitalization further contribute to the reduction of transaction costs in governance processes (Paolucci et al., 2021 ). In the business sector, digitalization has led to the automation of various business processes, supply chain management, and e-commerce. These digital advancements have resulted in reduced transaction costs related to procurement, contracting, and monitoring (Dutta et al., 2020 ). By providing a digital platform for business transactions, companies can achieve cost savings through improved efficiency and reduced information asymmetry. This reduction in transaction costs is particularly significant for startups and small businesses, contributing to economic development and job creation, as evident in initiatives like Startup India and Standup India (Ordanini & Pol, 2001 ).

The Digital India initiative

Digital technology has emerged as a crucial catalyst for India’s economic growth and the pursuit of social and economic equity by enhancing access to information, public services, and markets, thus addressing the country’s infrastructure deficit (Kumar, 2019 ; Vijayan, 2019 ). The potential of digital technology to transform India into a just and equitable society while propelling it to the forefront of nations is evident, particularly considering the country’s young population’s adaptability and innovative spirit (Gurumurthy et al., 2014 ; Kumar, 2019 ). In line with this vision, the ‘Digital India’ initiative was launched on July 1, 2015, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aiming to create a tech-empowered and knowledgeable society where government services are easily accessible to all citizens, fostering digital and economic empowerment (Thomas, 2019 ).

In 2018, the country had a staggering 560 million internet subscribers, positioning it as the second-largest market after China. Notably, Indian mobile data users exhibit high monthly data consumption, averaging 8.3 gigabits (GB). This surpasses the average of 5.5 GB in China and falls within the range of 8.0 to 8.5 GB observed in South Korea, a technologically advanced digital economy (McKinsey Global Institute, 2019 ). This growth can be attributed to the substantial improvements in internet infrastructure and increased internet access, providing opportunities for public and private stakeholders to deliver digital services (Athique, 2019 ). However, despite these advancements, India’s e-governance provision lags, with a ranking of 107th, primarily due to challenges associated with the Aadhaar card system, which poses difficulties for individuals in rural areas to access secure services. Concerns regarding data protection efficiency and effectiveness have also arisen in relation to Aadhaar (Gowd, 2022 ).

Kumar ( 2019 ) acknowledged the substantial improvements achieved in the program’s three key areas: electronic delivery of public services and financial support, creation of a national digital infrastructure, and enhancement of digital awareness and literacy. India has emerged as one of the world’s fastest digitizing nations, driven by increased mobile connectivity, exponential data consumption, nationwide internet infrastructure expansion through the BharatNet program, and the emergence of digital transformation startups catering to millions of Indians (Raj & Aithal, 2018 ). The success of the Jandhan-Aadhaar-Mobile (JAM) initiative, which has provided digital identities to over a billion Indian citizens and access to the banking system for previously excluded individuals, stands as a significant outcome of the Digital India initiative (Sekhri & OSD, 2020 ).

The Digital India initiative has also introduced several services and mobile applications to facilitate accessibility and participation. For instance, the Accessible India Campaign Mobile App aims to create equal opportunities and inclusivity for people with disabilities, allowing them to participate fully in all aspects of life in an inclusive society (Agrawal et al., 2022 ). The Agri Market App provides farmers with crop price information within a 50 km radius, discouraging distress sales and empowering farmers with market insights (Deininger, 2017 ). The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign focuses on eliminating gender discrimination and ensuring equal opportunities for girls in education and society (Parmar & Sharma, 2020 ). The Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) aims to enhance policing efficiency and effectiveness through the integration of e-governance principles and nationwide networking infrastructure for crime investigation and criminal detection (Sharma, 2021 ).

Other notable initiatives under the Digital India Program include the E-Hospital system, which facilitates seamless health information management across multiple hospitals, and the E-MSIPS platform, which enables online submission and scrutiny of applications for schemes related to electronics manufacturing and clusters (Nair, 2019 ). Kud ( 2023 ) highlights the pivotal role of the Goods and Service Tax Network (GSTN) in India’s taxation system. As a trusted national information utility, the GSTN facilitates a unified interface for taxpayers and fosters shared IT infrastructure between the central and state governments. The primary objective of the GSTN is to establish a seamless and cost-effective Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in the country. By providing a common platform for tax-related processes, the GSTN streamlines tax compliance and enhances efficiency in the overall taxation system, benefiting both taxpayers and the government. The National Ujala Dashboard promotes energy efficiency at the residential level, raising awareness about the benefits of using energy-efficient appliances and facilitating higher uptake of LED lights. Lastly, the Unified Mobile Application for New-Age Governance (UMANG) serves as a single-point access platform for various government services, simplifying the user experience and reducing the inconvenience of managing multiple mobile apps (Chunekar & Sreenivas, 2019 ).

Digital empowerment of rural India

Digital technology has brought about significant transformations in the lives of people, particularly in rural areas, by empowering and connecting them (Iivari et al., 2020 ). DIP was initiated with the objective of providing increased access to technology in rural regions through high-speed internet networks and enhancing digital literacy (Burman, 2021 ). This endeavor has presented Indians with the opportunity to leverage cutting-edge technology, leading to a transformation of the rural service industry (Rani, 2016 ). The program has facilitated IT training for students and villagers, equipping them with the necessary skills for employment in the ICT sector. Rural residents have been trained by telecom service providers to address local internet needs, resulting in the creation of job opportunities in the service industry (Vij, 2018 ).

One of the key impacts of DIP in rural areas has been the creation of community internet awareness (Banu, 2017 ). With the majority of Indians residing in rural regions, internet connectivity has played a crucial role in transforming these areas into digitally empowered societies, ensuring that everyone has access to the internet. The program has enabled rural communities, many of whom are economically disadvantaged, to access wireless internet, utilize digital platforms, and efficiently leverage e-Services (Nayak, 2018 ). This initiative has not only reduced the reliance on paper-based processes but has also resulted in significant resource savings for poor rural communities. By spending less time and money on accessing services, these communities contribute to a cleaner environment and promote sustainable practices (Jani & Tere, 2015 ).

Moreover, DIP has extended its benefits to farmers by offering them digital services. This virtual platform has connected farmers to national agricultural markets and provided access to technological advancements (Tripathi & Dungarwal, 2020 ). Farmers can access information on crop prices through mobile phones, enabling them to make informed decisions and optimize their agricultural practices. This integration of technology in the agricultural sector has opened up opportunities for increased productivity and income generation among rural farmers (Gond & Gupta, 2017 ).

DIP has also played a crucial role in driving economic growth, both in rural and urban areas. Government initiatives under the program, such as economic reforms, digitization, and smart cities, have attracted foreign direct investments (FDIs) and facilitated relaxed economic policies (Behera, 2021 ).

Furthermore, DIP has facilitated real-time education for rural communities, addressing the issue of teacher scarcity in India’s education system through smart and virtual classrooms (Kamath, 2021 ). Mobile devices have also been utilized to educate farmers and fishers on intelligent farming and fishing techniques, enhancing productivity and livelihoods (Sein-Echaluce et al., 2019 ). The availability of high-speed internet connectivity in rural areas has facilitated access to online education platforms, bridging the digital divide and providing supplemental educational resources to rural communities (Rizvi & Nabi, 2021 ).

The digital empowerment of rural India through DIP has brought significant socio-economic benefits. By promoting digital literacy and providing access to technology, DIP has empowered individuals in rural areas, enabling them to participate in the digital economy and improve their livelihoods. The program has not only created job opportunities in the service industry, but has also facilitated the growth of businesses in rural and urban areas alike (Nedungadi et al., 2018 ).

Moreover, the program has enhanced connectivity in rural India, bridging the infrastructure gap and enabling individuals and communities to access digital services and information. With community internet awareness, rural areas have transformed into digitally empowered societies where wireless internet and e-services have become readily accessible. This has led to increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved access to essential services for rural communities, ultimately contributing to their overall development (Banu, 2017 ).

In addition to its social and economic impact, DIP has played a vital role in attracting foreign direct investments and driving economic growth. The program’s focus on digitization, economic reforms, and the development of smart cities has created a conducive environment for investment and technological advancements (Bhasin, 2016 ). By aligning with international service standards and promoting a tech-empowered society, India has positioned itself as an attractive destination for global investments, leading to economic modernization and improved export capabilities (Nugroho et al., 2021 ). Farmers can connect with national agricultural markets by leveraging digital tools and services, expanding their market reach, and reducing reliance on intermediaries.

Digital India Program barriers

Digital divide.

The digital divide remains a significant barrier to the effective implementation of DIP. The divide refers to the disparity in internet connectivity and access between those who have it and those who do not (Jamil, 2021 ). In India, the digital divide is particularly pronounced between the rural and urban populations (Warf, 2019 ). Kar et al. ( 2018 ) highlighted that in 2017, 64 percent of the urban population had internet connectivity, while only 20 percent of rural residents were connected. This disparity can be attributed to several factors, including the complex economic conditions and cultural diversity of India (Ravindranath & Sundarakumar, 2021 ).

Additionally, India faces a shortage of skilled professionals capable of imparting essential digital skills to the population. The availability of formal digital skills training is limited, with a low percentage of India’s workforce reported to have received such training (Agarwal et al., 2023 ). The linguistic diversity in the country, with over 216 mother tongues, further complicates the challenge of digital literacy. This diversity, combined with functional illiteracy and limited English proficiency, creates barriers to understanding and acquiring digital language skills. It is imperative to address these challenges in order to promote digital inclusivity and empower individuals in India’s digital era (Mahapatra & Anderson, 2023 ).

DIP adoption strategies

To address the barriers to DIP adoption, two strategies/policies can be employed:

Right of way (RoW) policy: The implementation of an effective RoW policy can play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide and improving internet connectivity in rural areas. The RoW policy, introduced by India’s Department of Telecommunications in 2016, aims to facilitate the seamless acquisition of land for laying optic fiber cables and setting up mobile towers. By streamlining administrative processes and standardizing fees, the policy enables telecommunications companies to establish telecommunication infrastructure more efficiently (Dixit et al., 2022 ).

Under the RoW policy, telecommunication companies are required to electronically apply for laying down telecommunication infrastructure, ensuring transparency, cost-effectiveness, and timely deployment of optic fiber across India. The policy also allows telecommunication companies to install their infrastructure on government premises, such as post offices and administrative offices, further facilitating the expansion of network coverage (ESCAP, 2018 ).

To ensure the success of the RoW policy, close monitoring by both central and state governments is essential. Regular oversight can help ensure effective policy implementation, address any challenges that arise, and respond to issues raised in reports related to policy implementation. Additionally, the Indian government can encourage real estate developers to incorporate fiber access infrastructure when constructing new buildings, facilitating faster and more widespread fiber deployment by telecommunication companies (Dutta & Fischer, 2021 ).

Government sensitization: Government sensitization programs can play a vital role in addressing digital illiteracy and the digital divide. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, along with other relevant ministries, can organize awareness programs to educate the population on digital technologies, their benefits, and how to effectively utilize them (Goedhart et al., 2019 ).

These awareness programs should be designed to target different segments of the population, including rural communities. They can include workshops, training sessions, and interactive sessions with government officials, industry experts, and technology providers. The programs can focus on various aspects, such as digital payments, access to online services, and government schemes and platforms like the Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS) and Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) (Bhatt, 2019 ).

The design of these programs can be based on the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), which aims to predict behavioral intentions and factors that influence individuals’ adoption of technology. TRA suggests that individual attitudes and subjective norms play a crucial role in determining behavioral intent. By addressing attitudes and societal expectations through awareness programs, the government can encourage individuals to embrace digital technologies and overcome barriers such as lack of knowledge and misconception (Raut et al., 2021 ).

Moreover, these sensitization programs should be ongoing and regularly updated to reflect the evolving technology landscape. Continuous efforts to educate and create awareness about digital literacy can help bridge the gap between rural and urban populations, empower individuals with the necessary digital skills, and promote the adoption of digital services and applications (Falloon, 2020 ).

The digitization of public services in India has made significant progress, but there are still gaps and challenges that need to be addressed. The existing literature highlights the digital divide and digital literacy as key factors affecting the adoption of ICT in rural areas (Acilar & Sæbø, 2023 ; Lythreatis et al., 2022 ). However, there is a lack of in-depth studies on how to effectively solve the digital divide problem. One suggested solution is establishing rural telecentre service centers that provide ICT access to remote areas, facilitating technological accessibility for rural citizens (Rosales & Blanche, 2022 ).

While India has experienced success in e-governance and ICT initiatives, there are still challenges to overcome. Capacity building to utilize e-governance services, investments in and access to ICTs, and promoting people’s participation in e-democracy are identified as key challenges. The goal is to improve access to information and services, stimulate social and economic development, facilitate decision-making processes, and empower marginalized groups (Saxena et al., 2019 ).

The literature also emphasizes the rural–urban disparities in India, which are the largest in the world. Bridging the digital divide and promoting digital literacy is crucial for creating digitally empowered societies. The introduction of wireless internet and digital platforms in rural communities can contribute to reducing paper usage, saving resources, and promoting a clean environment. Additionally, it helps narrow the gap between rural and urban areas and addresses the lack of digital literacy (Jia & Desa, 2022 ).

Exploring the socio-economic impact of digital financial inclusion initiatives in rural areas of India

Adoption Rates of the Digital India Program among Different Demographic Groups refers to an analysis or examination of the extent to which various demographic groups within the population have embraced and utilized the Digital India Program. DIP is a government initiative to promote digital inclusion and transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy (Reddick et al., 2020 ).

By studying the adoption rates among different demographic groups, researchers can identify patterns and disparities in the uptake of digital technology within DIP. Demographic factors commonly considered in such analyses may include age, gender, occupation, education level, and income level (Prabhakar & Weber, 2020 ).

Understanding the adoption rates among different demographic groups provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of the Digital India Program in targeting specific populations and promoting digital inclusion (Nayak et al., 2019 ). It helps policymakers and program implementers assess whether certain groups may require additional support, resources, or tailored interventions to enhance their engagement with digital technologies. Additionally, it sheds light on potential barriers or challenges specific demographic groups face in adopting and utilizing digital tools and services within DIP (Dutta et al., 2020 ).

Conceptual framework

The conceptual framework for this study aims to investigate the factors influencing the adoption and utilization of digital information and technological innovation among rural populations in India. It comprises three main components: access to digital information and technology, influencing factors, and adoption and utilization outcomes.

Access to digital information and technology:

Availability of digital infrastructure (e.g., internet connectivity, mobile networks)

Availability of digital devices (e.g., smartphones, computers)

Accessibility of digital platforms and services

Influencing factors:

Demographic factors (e.g., age, gender, occupation)

Perceived usefulness and ease of use of digital technology

Digital literacy and skills

Socio-economic factors (e.g., income level, education level)

Government initiatives and support

Adoption and utilization outcomes:

The extent of digital information access and utilization

Engagement in online activities and communication

Socio-economic impact and empowerment

This conceptual framework provides a structure for analyzing the data collected from the survey and helps establish connections between the variables under investigation. It helps understand the factors that influence the adoption and utilization of digital information and technological innovation among rural populations in India and how they contribute to the study outcomes.

Research methodology

Research philosophy.

The research philosophy adopted for this study is a combination of positivism and interpretivism. Positivism was employed to ensure a systematic and objective investigation of the factors influencing the adoption and utilization of digital information and technology innovation among rural populations in India. It provided a structured approach to data collection, analysis, and interpretation, allowing for the identification of patterns and generalizations.

On the other hand, interpretivism was also incorporated to acknowledge the subjective nature of human experiences and the social context in which these factors operate. It recognized that individuals’ perceptions, beliefs, and interpretations play a significant role in shaping their adoption and utilization of digital technologies. Interpretivism allowed for a deeper understanding of the lived experiences, motivations, and challenges faced by rural populations in India when it comes to digital information and technology.

By employing a mixed research philosophy, this study aimed to capture both the objective aspects of the digital divide and the subjective experiences of individuals in rural India. The positivist approach provided a foundation for quantitative analysis, while the interpretive perspective facilitated qualitative insights through interviews, observations, and contextual understanding. This comprehensive research philosophy enabled a more holistic exploration of the research question and the factors influencing technology adoption and utilization in rural India.

Research design

This research was conducted using a quantitative survey. The use of questionnaires in this research provided a structured approach to gathering information and ensured credibility, repeatability, and representation of the actual state of affairs among the respondents. Questionnaires are widely acknowledged in the academic community for their flexibility, practicality, and cost-effectiveness in gathering information from the public (Phillips et al., 2021 ).

The research’s epistemological focus on rural areas in India is essential because it acknowledges the distinct characteristics and challenges of rural settings compared to urban areas. Indian rural areas often face infrastructural limitations, limited access to education and healthcare, and different socio-cultural dynamics. The questionnaire was designed to embed these differences by including questions that specifically addressed the unique challenges and opportunities within rural contexts. For instance, questions related to access to healthcare services, digital infrastructure, agricultural practices, and local community networks were incorporated to capture the rural-specific aspects. This approach ensured the research was contextually relevant and provided insights tailored to the rural population’s needs and experiences, enhancing the study’s applicability and impact.

Geographical disparities in rural India show that areas near urban centers tend to have higher adoption of digital skills due to better infrastructure and access to education. In contrast, remote rural areas face challenges like limited connectivity, resulting in lower adoption rates. Bridging these disparities requires improved infrastructure, digital literacy programs, and awareness efforts in remote regions.

The sample size for this study was determined using Fisher’s formula, and a sample of 400 individuals was considered appropriate. The study focused on the Kalahandi area in Odisha, which was manageable for the researcher to reach out to the participants within the defined sample size. The use of closed-ended questionnaires in interviews allowed for comprehensive data collection without limiting the scope of the research or influencing participants’ responses. It provided valuable insights into the research topic and offered an opportunity for respondents to express what was most important to them (Easterby-Smith et al., 2012 ).

The research design aligns with the positivist epistemological stance, taking a relatively objective posture to examine quantifiable variables (Ryba et al., 2022 ). The emphasis was placed on evidence and justification, utilizing statistical analysis techniques to interpret the collected quantitative data. The surveys were conducted using pre-defined questionnaires with the assistance of research assistants employed by SurveyMonkey.com, an online survey development company known for customizable surveys and data collection and analysis services. The research assistants were trained to ensure non-interference with the respondents’ answers while gathering data.

The collected data were processed and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), a statistical software application widely used for quantitative data handling. The SPSS tool facilitated the interpretation of the quantitative data through statistical tests, presenting the findings in graphs and tables. Inferential statistics techniques were applied to generalize the findings from the sample to the larger population. As a way of making sense of statistical information, inferential reasoning plays a crucial role in analyzing and interpreting the data (Cooksey, 2020 ).

Research sample

In order to ensure the meaningfulness and generalizability of a research study, it is essential to determine a representative research sample. A sample refers to a subset of the population under investigation, while the population encompasses the entire group of individuals relevant to the study. The selection of an appropriate sample is crucial for the findings to hold value and provide comprehensive insights (Tate & Perdices, 2018 ). Researchers employ various methods to establish a sample that accurately represents the population, particularly when the population size is large or covers a wide geographic area that is challenging to cover entirely.

The rural population of Kalahandi, India, is substantial, as indicated by the 2011 population census, which reported a population of 1,573,054 individuals. Due to the impracticality of reaching out to every individual within this population, a sample was chosen by determining the number of participants required. The general formula for calculating the number of individuals to be included in the sample is as follows: n = N / (1 + N × e^2).

Here, n represents the desired sample size, N denotes the total number of individuals in the Indian rural population, and e is the significance level set for the study (Cochran et al . , 1962). For this study, the significance level was set at 0.05.

In this case, the population of rural India was utilized to determine the appropriate sample size. Considering the population of Kalahandi District in 2011 as the entire population (1,573,054 individuals), it was necessary to determine a representative sample. Using the aforementioned formula, the sample size (represented by n) was calculated as follows: n = 1,573,054 / (1 + 1,573,054 × 0.05^2) n = 1,573,054 / 3,933.635 n ≈ 399.89.

Since the formula suggested an interview sample size of approximately 399.89 individuals, it was rounded to 400, a whole number. Fractions of individuals cannot participate in interviews, hence the need for a whole number. Furthermore, all research variables in the surveys will be measured using reflective concepts based on a five-point Likert scale, ranging from 1 (‘totally disagree’) to 5 (‘totally agree’).

Ethics, consent, and permissions

In conducting this research study on digital technology adoption in rural areas of India, we place a strong emphasis on ethical considerations and obtaining informed consent from all participants involved. This includes respondents who took part in data collection.

Before initiating any data collection activities, participants were provided with clear and comprehensive information regarding the nature and purpose of the study, as well as their rights as research participants. This information covered topics such as the research objectives, the types of data to be collected, and how their information will be used and stored. Participation in this study was entirely voluntary, and participants had the right to withdraw their consent at any stage without facing any consequences. Additionally, all data collected are kept confidential and anonymized to ensure the privacy of participants. Only aggregated and de-identified data were used for analysis and reporting.

Furthermore, this research study complies with all relevant data protection and privacy regulations, including those outlined by local authorities in India. Any personal information collected was handled in accordance with these regulations to safeguard the rights and privacy of the participants. If participants had any questions or concerns about participating in this research study, they were encouraged to contact the researchers for clarification. Contact information for the researchers was provided in the consent materials. By participating in this study, respondents acknowledged that they had read and understood the provided information and voluntarily consented to participate in the research. Their contributions were invaluable in advancing our understanding of digital technology adoption in rural areas and informing policies and interventions to bridge the digital divide.

Findings, analysis and evaluation

The findings, analysis, and evaluation play a crucial role as they present and interpret the results of the study. This section involves analyzing the collected data, discussing the findings pertaining to research questions and hypotheses, and evaluating the significance and implications of the results.

In line with research objectives, three hypotheses have been formulated to extend the understanding of the research topic:

H1: Digital information and adoption of digital technology in rural areas are increasing, indicating high literacy levels among the rural Indian population.

H2: Access to digital information and technological innovation in rural areas is influenced by demographic factors such as age, gender, and occupation.

H3: The perceived usefulness and ease of use of digital information and technological innovation have a significant impact on adoption and utilization among rural populations in India.

Response rate

Achieving a response rate higher than 70% is considered significant for deriving valid and meaningful deductions from a study (Tiberious et al., 2016 ). In this study, the response rate exceeded 70%, with 87.5% of the collected questionnaires being correctly answered and only 12.5% containing errors or missing information. This response rate provides a sufficient basis for drawing valid conclusions from the study.

The high response rate observed in this study, despite its rural setting, can potentially be attributed to the high literacy levels among the rural Indian population, as indicated by the education levels of the participants. Notably, nearly half of the population held bachelor’s degrees, and a considerable proportion had post-secondary education, indicating their ability to read and write. This explains the minimal number of rejected questionnaires due to inadequate information. It is worth mentioning that India has faced gender disparity challenges, and this study reveals that males continue to dominate over females, evident from the educational status of the respondents. It can be inferred that males have achieved higher levels of education compared to their female counterparts, particularly among those with postgraduate qualifications.

Of the 350 respondents interviewed, 220 were male, while 130 were female, indicating a higher representation of males in the study. Typically, in most countries, the female population slightly exceeds the male population. However, in this study, the overrepresentation of males among the respondents may not reflect the general population in India but rather the population connected through digital devices. This gender ratio likely mirrors the gender distribution of individuals using smart devices and participating in online social networks.

Nationality

Since this study was conducted in rural India, the respondents who completed the questionnaires were likely to be natives. The findings indicate that 91.4% of the respondents were native Indians, while only 8.6% were considered foreigners. This distribution accurately reflects the rural population in India, suggesting that the respondents have a comprehensive understanding of the country’s dynamics over the years.

Table 1 presents the age distribution of the rural Indian population, demonstrating a typical population pyramid with a majority of youths. More than 70% of the respondents were below 50 years old, indicating a vibrant and growing population in rural India, as most individuals fall within the reproductive age brackets. Only a smaller proportion of the respondents were aged 50 and above, accounting for less than 20% of the population.

This age distribution holds economic significance as it implies a workforce capable of contributing to increased productivity in the economy. The youthful population is well-positioned to engage in various activities and play a crucial role in nation-building. Furthermore, young individuals are more adaptable to technology and possess higher computer literacy, enabling them to readily embrace the services offered by digital programs. This finding aligns with the observations made by Kar et al. ( 2018 ) regarding the sharp increase in internet usage in India. Moreover, the substantial level of education among the respondents indicates a readiness to embrace digital advancements. Hence, DIP has a solid foundation in the form of a young, educated, and dynamic population, which is vital for the program’s sustainability. Additionally, the study confirms that the DIP primarily serves the local native population, with only a small percentage of foreigners among the respondents.

Level of education

The study reveals that a significant portion of the participants had attained a high level of education. More than 70% of the population held at least a diploma, with 47% of the respondents having a bachelor’s degree (Table  2 ). This suggests that a substantial proportion of the rural Indian population possesses a good level of education. Notably, even in rural areas, nearly half of the population has achieved a bachelor’s degree. Furthermore, the data indicate that men have a higher representation in postgraduate education compared to women. This trend aligns with the broader pattern observed in the population, where males more commonly pursue postgraduate studies, while females often prioritize family responsibilities. It is important to highlight that the level of education significantly influences people’s awareness of current events and developments. With more than 70% of respondents having education beyond a diploma, they are likely to possess a good understanding of the success and potential of the Digital India Program.

Table 2 provides a breakdown of the education level distribution by gender. The data show that males and females both had a range of educational backgrounds, but there were slight variations. The participants with certificates consisted of 8 males and 10 females, accounting for 5.1% of the total. High school education was reported by 23 males and 13 females, making up 10.3% of the sample. A total of 81 individuals, comprising 53 males and 28 females, had a diploma, representing 23.1% of the respondents. Graduate-level education was achieved by 100 males and 66 females, totaling 166 participants or 47.4% of the sample. Lastly, postgraduate studies were pursued by 36 males and 13 females, amounting to 49 individuals or 14.0% of the respondents.

Research findings

The research findings presented in this section shed light on the key insights and outcomes of the study, providing a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to the successful adoption and utilization of digital technology in rural areas. By examining these findings, we can uncover strategies and recommendations to enhance digital technology adoption and utilization, thereby empowering rural communities and fostering inclusive growth.

Trend Analysis of Awareness and Adoption Rates is a method used to examine the patterns and changes in the awareness and adoption of specific technologies or services over a given time period. This analysis provides insights into the growth or decline of awareness and adoption rates, allowing researchers and stakeholders to understand the evolving trends and make informed decisions.

In Table  3 , we have data on the awareness and adoption rates for e-voting, e-commerce, and mobile banking over a four-year period (2018–2021). By conducting a trend analysis on this data, we can determine the overall direction and magnitude of the changes in awareness and adoption rates for each service.

Table 3 represents the trend analysis of awareness and adoption rates for E-Voting, E-Commerce, and Mobile Banking over a four-year period from 2018 to 2021. It shows a consistent upward trend in awareness for all three services, with percentages increasing each year. Similarly, the adoption rates for these services also exhibit a positive trend, indicating a growing number of individuals adopting these digital technologies. The results suggest an increasing acceptance and utilization of E-Voting, E-Commerce, and Mobile Banking among rural populations in India, reflecting the expanding awareness and adoption of digital services in these areas over time; therefore, H1 is accepted.

Table 4 provides information on the adoption rates of digital technology among different demographic groups based on age group, gender, and occupation. In the age group of 18–25, the adoption rate is 0.65, indicating that 65% of individuals in this group have adopted digital technology. Among them, males have a higher adoption rate compared to females.

For individuals aged 26–35, the adoption rate increases to 0.75, suggesting that 75% of individuals in this age group, predominantly females, have embraced digital technology. In the age group of 36–45, predominantly males, the adoption rate is even higher at 0.82. This implies that 82% of individuals in this age group, primarily involved in entrepreneurship, have adopted digital technology. For individuals aged 46–55, predominantly females and retired, the adoption rate is lower at 0.50, indicating that 50% of individuals in this age group have embraced digital technology. Among individuals aged 56 and above, primarily males involved in farming, the adoption rate is 0.40, suggesting that 40% of individuals in this age group have adopted digital technology. These findings highlight the variations in adoption rates based on age, gender, and occupation. They indicate that younger individuals and those involved in professional or entrepreneurial occupations tend to have higher adoption rates compared to older individuals and those in retirement or farming occupations.

Table 5 presents the results of an analysis of variance (ANOVA) conducted to assess the differences in adoption rates among different demographic factors: age group, gender, and occupation.

For the age group factor, the sum of squares (SS) is 23.54, with 2 degrees of freedom (df), resulting in a mean square (MS) of 11.77. The F-value is 4.25, and the p-value is 0.023. Based on these results, the ANOVA indicates a significant difference in adoption rates between age groups. Similarly, for the gender factor, the sum of squares is 12.87, with 1 degree of freedom, resulting in a mean square of 12.87. The F-value is 6.71, and the p-value is 0.008. This indicates a significant difference in adoption rates between genders.

For the occupation factor, the sum of squares is 18.29, with 3 degrees of freedom, resulting in a mean square of 6.10. The F-value is 3.89, and the p-value is 0.015. These results suggest a significant difference in adoption rates across different occupations.

Table 6 presents the results of a logistic regression analysis conducted to examine the relationship between the adoption rate of digital technology (dependent variable) and three independent variables: age group, gender, and occupation. The coefficients represent the estimated effect of each independent variable on the adoption rate. Based on the results, the age group has a coefficient of 0.45, gender has a coefficient of 0.32, and occupation has a coefficient of 0.21. All three coefficients have associated standard errors and p-values. The odds ratio represents the likelihood of adoption based on each independent variable. The p-values for all three variables are below the significance level of 0.05, indicating statistical significance. A significance level of 0.05 is chosen as a solid foundation for hypothesis testing because it represents a commonly accepted threshold for determining the statistical significance of research findings. When p-values fall below this level, it indicates strong evidence in support of the research conclusions. Therefore, age group, gender, and occupation are found to be significant predictors of the adoption rate of digital technology, therefore accepting H 2 . This suggests that these demographic factors play a role in influencing the likelihood of adopting digital technology among the population.

Table 7 presents the correlation coefficients between three variables: perceived usefulness, ease of use, and adoption/utilization of digital technology. The correlation coefficient ranges from -1 to + 1 and indicates the strength and direction of the relationship between variables.

Based on the table, perceived usefulness is strongly positively correlated with ease of use, with a correlation coefficient of 0.67. This suggests that individuals who perceive digital technology as useful are more likely to find it easy to use. Similarly, perceived usefulness has a moderate positive correlation with adoption/utilization, with a correlation coefficient of 0.48. This indicates that individuals who perceive digital technology as useful are more likely to adopt and utilize it. Ease of use also has a moderate positive correlation with adoption/utilization, with a correlation coefficient of 0.34. This suggests that individuals who find digital technology easy to use are more likely to adopt and utilize it.

Table 8 presents the results of a regression analysis conducted to examine the relationship between the dependent variable, adoption/utilization of digital technology, and two independent variables, perceived usefulness and ease of use.

The coefficient represents the estimated effect of each independent variable on the dependent variable. In this analysis, perceived usefulness has a coefficient of 0.79, indicating that for every one-unit increase in perceived usefulness, there is a predicted increase of 0.79 units in the adoption/utilization of digital technology. Similarly, ease of use has a coefficient of 0.42, suggesting that for every one-unit increase in ease of use, there is a predicted increase of 0.42 units in adoption/utilization.

The standard error measures the precision of the coefficient estimates. A smaller standard error indicates a more precise estimate. Both coefficients in this table have relatively small standard errors, indicating a reasonable level of precision.

The p-values determine the statistical significance of each coefficient. In this analysis, perceived usefulness and ease of use have p-values less than the chosen significance level (typically 0.05), indicating that the coefficients are statistically significant. This suggests that both perceived usefulness and ease of use are important predictors of the adoption/utilization of digital technology.

The odds ratio provides an alternative interpretation of the coefficients. For perceived usefulness, the odds ratio of 2.20 indicates that individuals who perceive digital technology as more useful are 2.20 times more likely to adopt/utilize it. Similarly, for ease of use, the odds ratio of 1.52 suggests that individuals who find digital technology easier to use are 1.52 times more likely to adopt/utilize it. Based on the regression analysis, both perceived usefulness and ease of use have a significant positive impact on the adoption/utilization of digital technology. Higher levels of perceived usefulness and ease of use are associated with increased adoption/utilization rates, therefore accepting H 3.

The findings of this study shed light on the factors influencing the successful adoption and utilization of digital technology in rural areas, with a specific focus on the Digital India Program. The age distribution of the rural Indian population aligned with previous research observations and was expected (Gangotia & Pradhan, 2022 ; Roy, 2018 ). The pyramid-shaped age structure, with a majority of young individuals, signifies a youthful workforce that holds immense economic significance. The predominance of young respondents indicates their potential to actively contribute to the economy and suggests a higher likelihood of embracing digital technologies. This finding supports the notion that younger individuals are more adaptable to technology and possess higher computer literacy, as previously observed by Kar et al. ( 2018 ) and Soja ( 2017 ). Thus, the expected result reinforces the understanding that DIP can effectively target the younger demographic in rural areas.

Moreover, the high level of education among the respondents was also anticipated. The substantial proportion of individuals holding at least a diploma, with almost half possessing a bachelor’s degree, indicates a population with a good understanding of the potential and success of digital initiatives. These education levels in rural areas surpass expectations and underscore the prevalence of education and knowledge in the rural Indian population. The anticipated result reinforces the hypothesis that the rural population, even in remote areas, is equipped to embrace digital advancements and benefit from DIP (Karine, 2021 ; Mueller et al., 2020 ).

However, there were unexpected and profound findings that deserve closer examination. Firstly, the significantly higher rate of digital technology adoption among female respondents challenges the conventional perception of gender disparities in technology access and usage. The higher rate of digital technology adoption among female respondents suggests a promising shift in gender disparities in technology access in rural areas. This may be attributed to the impact of women-focused empowerment initiatives, which have enhanced digital literacy and confidence among women, as well as the tangible benefits that digital technologies offer for education, healthcare, and economic opportunities (Elliott et al., 2020 ). This finding signifies the potential for gender-inclusive digital development and emphasizes the effectiveness of targeted programs in empowering women and narrowing the technology gender gap in rural communities, contributing to more equitable and inclusive digital transformation. This unexpected result contradicts previous studies that have reported lower technology adoption rates among women in rural areas (Chatterjee et al., 2020 ; Smith et al., 2015 ). The finding suggests a potential shift in gender dynamics and highlights the empowering effect of DIP in bridging the gender gap and promoting gender equality in technology access.

Secondly, the higher utilization of mobile-based services compared to computer-based services was an unexpected trend. Previous literature has emphasized the role of computer-based services in promoting digital inclusion (Heeks, 2010). However, as indicated by the survey results, the dominance of mobile-based services suggests a paradigm shift in technology utilization patterns. This unexpected trend may be attributed to the affordability and accessibility of mobile devices, enabling a wider range of rural individuals to engage with digital platforms. These findings challenge existing notions and highlight the need for a comprehensive understanding of technology usage patterns to effectively tailor digital programs for rural areas.

Comparing our results with previous studies reveals both similarities and discrepancies. The unexpectedly higher adoption rate among female respondents challenges the findings of Smith ( 2015 ), who reported lower technology adoption rates among women in rural areas. Our study’s findings indicate a positive shift in gender dynamics and underscore the potential of digital programs, such as DIP, in promoting gender equality in technology access.

Additionally, the trend toward mobile-based services aligns with the observations of Kar et al. ( 2018 ), who noted a significant increase in internet usage in India due to the widespread availability of affordable smartphones. Our study’s findings reinforce the need to recognize the importance of mobile-based platforms in digital inclusion efforts and highlight their potential to reach a wider audience in rural areas (James, 2020 ; Pal & Vanijja, 2020 ).

The findings of this study have several practical implications for policymakers, government agencies, and organizations involved in promoting digital inclusion in rural areas. Firstly, the unexpected finding of higher technology adoption among female respondents emphasizes the importance of gender-inclusive strategies in digital initiatives. Policymakers and organizations should focus on providing equal opportunities and resources for women in rural areas to enhance their participation in digital programs (Davey & Davey, 2014 ). This can be achieved through targeted awareness campaigns, skill development programs, and ensuring access to affordable and reliable digital infrastructure (ElMassah & Mohieldin, 2020 ).

Furthermore, the dominance of mobile-based services suggests the need to prioritize mobile technology in the design and implementation of digital programs (Fabregas et al., 2019 ). Policymakers should invest in enhancing mobile connectivity, improving network coverage, and promoting the affordability of smartphones in rural areas. Additionally, initiatives should be undertaken to improve digital literacy and provide training on mobile-based applications and services, ensuring that rural communities can fully leverage the benefits offered by mobile technologies (Fennell et al., 2018 ; Mishra et al., 2019 ).

To facilitate the effective implementation of digital initiatives, partnerships and collaborations between government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private sector entities are essential. By pooling resources and expertise, stakeholders can develop comprehensive strategies, share best practices, and address the unique challenges faced by rural communities (Montgomery et al., 2012 ; Warner & Sullivan, 2017 ). Furthermore, involving local communities in the decision-making process and ensuring their active participation can foster a sense of ownership and increase the likelihood of successful adoption and utilization of digital technologies (Lorenzi et al., 2009 ).

The trend analysis of awareness and adoption rates for e-voting, e-commerce, and mobile banking over a four-year period revealed a consistent upward trend, indicating increasing acceptance and utilization of these digital services among rural populations in India. This suggests a growing awareness and adoption of digital technologies in rural areas over time.

Furthermore, the analysis of adoption rates among different demographic groups based on age, gender, and occupation demonstrated variations in adoption rates, with younger individuals and those involved in professional or entrepreneurial occupations having higher adoption rates compared to older individuals and those in retirement or farming occupations.

The analysis of variance and regression analysis further supported the influence of demographic factors on the adoption rate of digital technology. Age group, gender, and occupation were found to be significant predictors of the adoption rate, suggesting that these factors play a role in influencing the likelihood of adopting digital technology among the population.

The correlation analysis indicated positive relationships between perceived usefulness, ease of use, and adoption/utilization of digital technology. Individuals who perceive digital technology as useful and easy to use are more likely to adopt and utilize it.

The regression analysis confirmed the importance of perceived usefulness and ease of use as predictors of the adoption/utilization of digital technology. Higher levels of perceived usefulness and ease of use were associated with increased adoption/utilization rates.

Overall, these findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge and emphasize the significance of digital literacy, demographic factors, and perceived usefulness and ease of use in bridging the digital divide and fostering the adoption and utilization of digital technology in rural areas. The study highlights the importance of enhancing literacy rates, addressing demographic variations, and emphasizing user-centric design and usability in promoting the adoption and utilization of digital technology in rural communities.

Theoretical implications

The research findings presented in this study have several theoretical implications for the field of digital technology adoption in rural areas. Firstly, the trend analysis of awareness and adoption rates provided insights into the changing patterns of technology adoption over time. The consistent upward trend in awareness and adoption rates for e-voting, e-commerce, and mobile banking indicates the increasing acceptance and utilization of digital technologies in rural populations. This highlights the evolving nature of technology adoption and the growing digital divide in rural areas. Secondly, the finding supports the notion that enhancing literacy rates is crucial in bridging the digital divide and promoting the adoption and utilization of digital technology. It emphasizes the importance of digital literacy as a facilitator of technology adoption and highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve digital literacy in rural areas. Thirdly, the findings revealed that factors beyond demographic characteristics play a more prominent role in influencing technology adoption in rural areas. It emphasizes the role of education and occupation in shaping individuals’ attitudes and behaviors toward technology adoption. Lastly, the role of education in digital literacy, showcasing the potential for gender-inclusive technology initiatives, and recognizing the growing importance of mobile technology in rural digital access, all of which inform the development of more inclusive and effective theoretical frameworks for rural digital transformation.

Managerial implications

The research findings also have important managerial implications for policymakers, organizations, and stakeholders involved in promoting digital technology adoption in rural areas. Firstly, the increasing trend in awareness and adoption rates indicates a growing market potential for digital services in rural populations. Policymakers and organizations can capitalize on this trend by developing targeted strategies to promote digital literacy and provide access to digital information in rural areas. This can involve initiatives such as setting up digital training centers, improving internet connectivity, and partnering with local organizations to deliver educational programs. Secondly, the significant relationship between digital information availability and technology adoption suggests that efforts should be made to improve the availability and accessibility of digital information in rural communities. Policymakers can work towards improving internet infrastructure and providing information through various channels such as community centers, mobile vans, or government programs. Organizations can also collaborate with local community leaders and organizations to disseminate digital information effectively.

Thirdly, the finding that literacy and occupation are significant predictors of technology adoption highlights the importance of educational and vocational programs in rural areas. Policymakers and organizations can focus on enhancing literacy rates and providing vocational training that includes digital skills. Technology adoption can be facilitated by empowering individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills, leading to increased access to digital services and economic opportunities.

Practical implications

The findings of this study have practical implications for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to promote the adoption and utilization of digital technology in rural areas of India. First and foremost, it underscores the importance of digital literacy programs tailored to different demographic groups, with a focus on older individuals, retirees, and those engaged in farming occupations. Recognizing these groups may have lower adoption rates, targeted efforts to enhance their digital skills and awareness are crucial.

Moreover, it emphasizes the need for user-centric design and usability of digital services. To encourage adoption, digital platforms, and applications should be designed with a focus on perceived usefulness and ease of use, making them accessible and valuable to users. This involves user-friendly interfaces, clear instructions, and features that cater to the specific needs of rural populations.

The study also highlights the ongoing positive trend in the adoption of digital services, suggesting that awareness and acceptance are growing in rural areas over time. Policymakers should leverage this trend by continuously promoting the benefits of digital technologies and expanding infrastructure and connectivity to reach more remote regions.

Ideas for future research

While this study provides valuable insights into digital technology adoption in rural areas, there are several avenues for future research. Some potential areas for further investigation include: conducting longitudinal studies to examine the long-term effects of technology adoption in rural communities. This could involve assessing the economic, social, and educational outcomes associated with digital technology adoption and exploring how these outcomes evolve. Investigating the influence of cultural factors on technology adoption in rural areas could involve exploring the role of cultural values, beliefs, and norms in shaping individuals’ attitudes and behaviors toward digital technology adoption. Examining the impact of infrastructure development, such as improved internet connectivity and access to electricity, on technology adoption in rural communities. This research could explore how infrastructure improvements affect individuals’ access to digital services and willingness to adopt and utilize technology.

Data availability

Data will be made available on request.

Abbreviations

Digital India Program

Information and Communication Technology

Geospatial Information Systems

Unified Payments Interface

Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan

Jandhan-Aadhaar-Mobile

Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems

Goods and Service Tax Network

Goods and Services Tax

Unified Mobile Application for New-Age Governance

Foreign Direct Investments

Right of Way

Bharat Bill Payment System

Bharat Interface for Money

Theory of Reasoned Action

Statistical Package for the Social Sciences

Analysis of variance

Sum of squares

Degrees of freedom

Mean square

Non-governmental organizations

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Digital India and Indian Society: A Case Study

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Digital india under ict regime: a case study.

Swaleha Zubair, Ravi Kumar Gaur . Digital India under ICT Regime: A Case Study. International Journal of Computer Applications. 179, 29 ( Mar 2018), 35-39. DOI=10.5120/ijca2018916662

Digital India, a campaign of government of India, has been launched to ensure electronic access of various government services to its citizens. Among various possible strategies, introduction of improved online infrastructure along with faster internet connectivity are likely to make great impact in making an action digitally empowered .The present report is an effort to check if a representative city Aligarh of Uttar Pradesh, India is ready for making such digital living transition in spite of its old living style.

• http://mhrd.gov.in/ict_overview
• http://www.digitalindia.gov.in/content/vision-and-vision-areas
• http://www.news18.com/news/tech/digital-india-5-major-problems-that-government-needs-to-Address-quick-1334984.html
• Thomas, PradipNinan (2012-07-11).DigitalIndia: UnderstandingInformation, Communicationand Social Change. SAGE Publications India.
• "Vietnam may emulate Digital India, seekscooperation one-governance", Hindustan Times, 28 March2017
• http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/digital-payments-cyber-security-data-theft-hacking- demonetisation-4422513/
• http://www.businesstoday.in/current/economy- politics/here-are-the-top-cashless-countries-in-the-world/story/241430.html
• http://indianexpress.com/article/technology/tech- news-technology/projects-and-policies-launched- at-digital-india-week/
• http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-business/Cabinet-nod-for-rural-digital-literacy-programme/article17265514.ece
• http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Khammam-Tab/2017-05-02/Digital-literacy-classes-for-unemployed/297175
• https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/vietnam-may-emulate-digital-india-seeks-cooperation-on-e-governance/story- GTgaVp5IFYKVNInNeaj6BN.html
• https://www.gadgetsnow.com/tech-news/Mark-Zuckerberg-changes-his-profile-picture-to-support-Digital-India/articleshow/49128369.cms
• https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/ business/companies/digital-india-to-propel- economy-to-its-best-era-oracle--1326855.html
• http://epaper.thestatesman.com/c/6714327
• http://www.financialexpress.com/economy/india-internet-conference-2017-minds-meet-on-countrys-digital-future/616904/
• http://www.financialexpress.com/india- news/cabinet-approves-pradhan-mantri-gramin- digital-saksharta-abhiyan/543139/
• http://vikaspedia.in/e-governance/digital-india/national-digital-literacy-mission
• https://www.livehindustan.com/news/national/article1-modi-cabinet-approves-pradhan-mantri-gramin-digital-saksharta-abhiyan-697220.html
• http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bengaluru/2016/mar/15/Government-School-in-Remote-Bandahalli-Village-Gets-Inspired-by-Digital-India-911767.html
• http://www.livemint.com/Politics/dzh7h nHafnvVI8hoIlNqPI/GST-to-take-care-of-many-of- ecommerce-firms-tax-issues-IT.html
• https://books.google.co.uk/books?hl=en&lr=&id=SOqICwAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PT8&dq=digital+india&ots=nkr0YimG4q&sig=NMK1jLDfwRGLZHfzTtUTyPjugQc#v=onepage&q&f=false
• http://www.indiagovernance.gov.in/files/ICT-for-broader-dev-in-India.pdf
• http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/digital-india-campaign-panchkula-comes-out-on-top-among-all-districts-of-haryana/
• https://www.deccanchronicle.com/technology/in-other-news/181016/data-xgen-technologies-launches-email-address-in-local-indian-languages.html
• http://trak.in/tags/business/2016/08/01/local-regional-language-email-address-vernacular-push/
• http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/digital-india-digital-india-initiative-software-technology-park-of-india-software-technology-park-in-panchkula-panchkula-news-under-the-digital-india-initiative-software-technology-park-of-india/
• https://web.archive.org/web/20150515073907/http://india.gov.in/spotlight/digilocker-online-document-storage-facility
• http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-10-07/news/54735540_1_biometric-attendance-system-government-employees-attendance-records.
• https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/finance/government-unveils-umang-app-for-citizen-services/articleshow/61769676.cms
• http://www.business-standard.com/article/politics/modi-s-new-mobile-friendly-website-launched-116011500919_1.html
• http://previewtech.net/digital-india- botnet/

Index Terms

Computer Science Information Sciences

Digital India Digital Technology e-Kranti e- Governance Digital India Acceptance cashless

Digital India Project Class 12 and 11 – Economics

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

Digital India is an initiative of the government of India to integrate the government departments and the people of India. It aims at ensuring that government services are made available to citizens economically by reducing paperwork. The initiative also includes a plan to connect rural areas with high-speed internet works. Digital India has three core components. These Include

• The creation of digital infrastructure
• Delivering services digitally
• Digital Literacy

WHAT IS DIGITAL INDIA?

• Digital India is a program to prepare India for a knowledgeable future.
• The focus is on being transformative-to realize IT+IT=IT

DIGITAL INDIA: A PLETHORA OF OPPORTUNITY FOR IT

• Today we are in the midst of a third industrial revolution powered by digitalisation, the first one being driven by steam engines & electricity.
• Digital transformation is causing a massive upheaval in cross- industries & socities. When it comes to the pace of technology advancement we are firmly in the second half of the Chen board where each subsequent advancement is massively more impactful than all previous advancements.
• A key area of investment under this initiative is to improve the government to citizen interface of various service deliveries. The government is serious about automated delivery of services & we can see it in the JAM paradigm -JOM Dhan Yojana for direct benefit transfer based on Aadhar infrastructure & mobile interface for banking.
• The government has saved Rs13,000 crore in booking gas subsidiaries. past fiscal setting technology to use and now proposes to extend the technology to deliver MNREGS subsidies.
• For technology companies. Digital India opens up a plethora of opportunities such as building the broadband infrastructure, creating identity solutions payment systems, web or mobile-based delivery structures and so on.
• Cybersecurity is another key area of focus
• Smart cities are another big area of opportunity for technology companies as part of digital India.
• Closely tied to the digital program is the ‘Make in Inda’ initiative. For India to transition to a digital future a greater proportion of its consumption must be serviced locally.

ACHIEVING DIGITAL INDIA

• The obvious function of Digital India’s is the repetitive infrastructure, but the government’s conception of infrastructure is somewhat lopsided and too broad in some aspects. while not emphasizing others enough.
• The first step has to be to create a robust extensive fibre optic network and to make more specimens available for wireless connectivity. The latter in particular with the use of smart homes and smaller tablets will make expensive projects such as common service centres almost unnecessary.
• A nationwide digital network will require robust software, especially for security. the continental instances of security breaches in developed countries with supposedly advanced digital infrastructure reinforce the view that security is a paramount concern for new digital infrastructure.
• The government of India has initiated a giant loop forward to transform the country into a digital knowledge economy.
• Digital Inda will help in leveraging India’s globally acclaimed IT competence for the benefit of 120 crore Indians.
• It will help in reducing corruption, getting things done quickly & will help in reducing paperwork.
• Some of the facilities which would be available through this initiative are a Digital locker, Education, e-health, Digital signature and national scholarships portal.

DIGITAL INCLUSION INTEGRATED INTO SOCIAL SERVICE

The imperative comprehensive digital inclusion strategies are not solely tried to economic issues but also government agencies their sum e-govt initiative to improve citizen services & optimized operational efficiency.

• Educational content also needs to be available in major Indian languages
• The final aspect of implementing a vision of Digital India should be digitizing the internal working of government not just at the national and state levels, not just at the national & state levels but down to local governments. This is a huge undertaking. Even basic aspects of operations such as accrual accounting are absent- from sub-national tiers of government.
• The second priority is to make sure that there is enough expertise to maintain this infrastructure.
• Third, basic software implementation & educational content should be made available in multiple Indian languages.

As a result, a growing number of services are being offered to the public online these include

• Food assistance
• Training opportunities
• Recreational facilities and programme
• Financial assistance

VISION OF DIGITAL INDIA

Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of digital India

I dream of an India where

• High-speed digital highways unite the nation.
• 12 connected Indian drive innovation
• Access to information no barriers
• The technology ensures the citizen-government interface is incorruptible
• Government proactively engages with the people through social media.
• Quality education reaches the most inaccessible connections driven by digital earings.
• Quality healthcare percolates light up to the remotest regions powered by e-healthcare.
• Farmers are empowered by real-time information to be connected to the global markets.
• Mobile enable emergency services to ensure personal security.
• Mobile& E-banking ensure financial inclusion.

3 KEY AREAS

Infrastructure as utility to every citizen.

• High-speed internet as well as core utility.
• Grade to grave digital identity-unique, lifelong, online and authenticable.
• Mobile phone & Bank Account-enabling participation in digital & financial space.
• Easy access to a common service centre.
• Shareable private space on a public cloud.
• Safe and secure cyber-space.

Original India provides the intensified impetus for further momentum and progress for e-Governance and would promote inclusive growth that covers electronic services, products, devices, manufacturing and job opportunities.

GOVERNANCE AND SERVICES ON DEMAND

• Seamlessly integrated across departments or jurisdictions.
• Services are available in real-time from online & mobile platforms.
• All citizen entitlements are to be available on the cloud.
• Services digitally transformed for improving the ease of doing business
• making financial transactions Electronic & cashless.
• Leveraging G’s for decision support systems & developments.

DIGITAL EMPOWERMENT OF CITIZEN

• Universal Digital literacy
• Universally accessible digital resources.
• All documents/certifications are to be available on the cloud.
• Availability of digital resources/services in Indian languages.
• Collaborative digital platform for participative governance.
• Portability of all entitlements through the cloud.
• Universal digital literacy.

PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE

The programme management structure for the Digital India programme as endorsed by the Union cabinet is as follows.

For effective management of the Digital India programme the programme management structure would consist of a monitoring committee on digital India needed by the Prime Minister, a digital India Advisory group cheered by the minister of communications & IT and an apex committee chaired by the cabinet secretary.

The structure has the needed secretarial monitoring/technical support & appropriate decentralization of power & responsibility to ensure the effective execution of the various projects/components by the implementing departments/teams. Key components of the programme management structure would be as follows

• CABINET COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC AFFAIRS(CCEA) for programme level policy decisions.
• Monitoring committee on digital India under the chairpersonship of the prime minister which will be constituted with representation drawn from relevant ministries/departments
• A digital India advisory group headed by the minister of communications and IT
• Apex Committee.
• Expenditure finance committee 9EFO)/ committee on nonplan expenditure
• A council of mission leaders on digital India
• State committee on Digital India

FOr effective monitoring of Digital India’s usage of the project management information system would be mandatory in each new & existing mission mode project to capture the real or near-real crime details about the progress of the project. This cool should be proficient enough to capture the parameters for each stage of the project namely conceptualisation & development.

Since “e-Kranti”.natioanl e-governance plan 2.0 is already integrated with the Digital India programme, the existing programme management structure established for the national e-governance plan at both national& state levels.

the estimated impact of Digital India by 2019 would be cross-cutting ranging from broadband connecting in all panchayats.

EFFECTS OF DIGITAL INDIA PROJECT BY 2019

• Wifi in 2.5 lakh educational institution,all universities,community,wi-fi location for people.
• Job creation: immediate 1.7 cr and oblique at least 8.5cr
• India to be innovative in 17 us in solutions health, knowledge, financial.
• High spend investment in 2.5 lakh villages universal phone connection
• 400,000 community internet access point
• Digitalisation by 2020.
• e-governance & e-service across government.
• Originally motivational people public reasoning internet access.
• The programme will generate a huge no of IT.welcome & electronics jobs, both directly & indirectly

The success of this programme will make India originally empowered & the leader in its usage of It in the delivery of services related to carrier domains.

NINE PILLARS OF DIGITAL INDIA

• BROADBAND HIGHWAYS This covers three sub-components, namely broadband for all rural. Broadband for all urban & natural information infrastructure under Broadland for all rural,250 thousand village panchayats would be covered by December 2016.DOT will be the nodal department & the project cost is estimated to be approximately Rs 32,000 crores. under broadband for all urban, virtual network operators would be leveraged for device delivery & communication infrastructure.
• UNIVERSAL ACCESS TO MOBILE CONNECTIVITY The initiative is to focus on network penetration & fill the gaps in connectivity in the country. Al together 42,300uncovered villages in India will be covered for providing universal mobile connectivity in the country.DOT will be the model department & project cost will be around Rs16,000 or driving EY 201-2018.
• PUBLIC INTERNET ACCESS PROGRAMME The euro sub-components of the public internet-access programme are common service centres & post offices as multi-service centres common services centres would be when themed e its number would be increased from approximately 135,000 operation ar present to 250,000 i.e one 9SC in each gram panchayat. ( SC would be made viable multi-functional and points for delivery of government and business services.
• E-GOVERNANCE REFORMING GOVERNMENT THROUGH TECHNOLOGY Government Business process re-engineering using It to improve transaction is the most critical for transformation is the most critical for transportation across government & therefore needs to be implemented by all ministries/ department. The guiding principles for reforming government–through technology from simplification & field reduction forms should be made simple & user frequency 7 only minimum.
• E-KRANTI-ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SERVICE There are 31 mission mode projects under different stages of the governance project lifecycle, further 10 new MMPs have neem added to thee-Kranti by the Apex Committee on the National e-governance plan (NCGP) headed by the cabinet-secretary units meeting held on 18th March 2014.
• INFORMATION FOR ALL Often Data platforms & online hosting of information & documents would facilitate & easy access to information for citizens. Government shall pro-actively engage through social media and web-based platforms to inform citizens My Gov. has already been launched as a medium to exchange ideas/suggestions for the government.
• ELECTRONIC MANUFACTURING Target NET zero imports is a striking demonstration of intent. This ambitious goal requires coordinated action on many fronts. Taxation incentives. Economics of scale, eliminate cots disadvantages. Incubators, clusters.
• IT FOR JOBS 1 Cr students from smaller towns & villages will be trained for IT sector jobs over 5 years. Delete would be the nodes department for this scheme.BPOs would be set up in every month eastern state to facilitate ICT enabled growth in these states.5 lakh rural workforce would be trained by the telecom service provider.

DIGITAL SERVICES IN RURAL AREAS

On its initiative, DEF is convincing and helping gram panchayats 24 village councils to take the digital route for better governance, set up their websites and facilitate elected panchayat representation to become digitally literate.

On its initiative, DEF is convincing and helping gram panchayats or village councils to take the digital rule for better governance, to set up their websites. In 2010, DEF in Partnership with the national information exchange of India, an autonomous body of the ministry of communication 7 IT, started convincing gram panchayats to set up their websites to go online.DEF initiated and rolled out the original panchayat programme in collaboration with the National Internet Exchange of India in 2010.

• To empower citizens of every panchayat with bottom-up and lop down information & content.
• TO improve the development, governance & public service delivery at the panchayat level through the information on policy programmes and implementation.
• Co-create a digital data hosue at every panchayat level.
• To give a flip to the right to information campaign.
• More than 500 panchayats have been digitally enabled and they now have an online presence.
• Over 50 CIRCs in 10 states have digital panchayat centres which help panchayats to go online.
• Over5,000 gram panchayat members have been made digitally literate
• All digital panchayat centres have NELY affliction for providing training panchayat members.

SCOPE OF STUDY

• The overall scope of the study is to preface & make Indians aware of a knowledge future.
• On being transformative that is to realize IT (Indian Talent) + IT ( Information Technology) =IT (India Tomorrow)
• TO know about making technology central to enabling change. we can see the changes & development. The technology of India in a digital way.
• As digital India is being an umbrella programme, that is covering many departments.
• The programme weaves together a large number of ideas & thoughts into a single, comprehensive vision so that each of them is seen as part of a larger goal.
• Each element stands on its own but is also part of the larger picture.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

• The most important objective to study digital projects is to know about the digital services which India will go to adopt soon.
• To create awareness about the digital services among the young generation.
• To make students aware of how they can maintain digital wellness by taking informed decisions c becoming safe, respectful & responsible users of digital technology.
• To empower every citizen with accessible digital services knowledge & information.
• Imparting digital services to a rural area. The digital India campaign primarily aims to impact small towns & rural areas where a big chunk of the population is untouched by digital.

NEED OF STUDY

• To make people aware of the digital India project by the government of India.
• To effectively deliver the management of Digital India.
• The core philosophy of the digital India project is to give all citizens of the country access to the internet as a way to interact with their government’s avail of public services.
• To analyse the growth in areas of electronic services products, manufacturing & job opportunities etc after digitalization.
• To analyse the digital effects in the country after completion of the project by 2020.
• To increase the demand for e-services economy India.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

My research methodology requires gathering relevant data from the specified documents and compiling databases for a more complete understanding. I hope to shed light on the questions through my research.

• DATA COLLECTION Primary data A consumer survey in digital India
• SECONDARY DATA Study reports from the internet Articles in newspapers & the internet
• DATA COLLECTION TOOLS Questionnaire survey Internet Newspaper
• TYPES OF RESEARCH Explanatory research Description research
• SAMPLING Target population-Mumbai City Sampling unit-Individual respondent Sample size-100 respondents only

PRIME MINISTER’S SPEECH ON DIGITAL INDIA

The speech was held in 1-July-2015 in Delhi at the launch of the digital India campaign. Taking about his dream of digitally connecting India PM Modi launched his ambitious Digital India project. the project aims to create a digitally empowered society & knowledge economy. Modi spoke extensively of his vision for digital India.”I dream of a digital India where high sped digital highways unite the nation.

I dream of a digital India where 1.2 billion connected Indians drive innovation. I dream of a Digital India where the government is often and governance is transparent. I dream of a digital India where the rural economy has access to e-healthcare. I dream of a Digital India where the world looks to India for the next big idea” he said.” Just like make in India is important-design in India is also important”

DATA ANALYSIS & INTERPRETATION

Q1) Are you aware of Digital India Projects?

INTERPRETATION

The above pie chart shows the percentage of awareness of the ‘Digital India Project’.

• Out of 100 (i.e 70%), respondents are aware of the digital India project.
• 12 out 0f 100(i.e 12%) respondents have no idea about Digital India Projects
• 18 out of 100 (i.e 18Z%) respondents have just heard the same digital India project’.

Q2) Do you think the Digital India project will uplift the standard of living?

Do the above Pie charts show that the ‘Digital India Project’ will uplift the standard of living or not?

• 93 out of 100 (i.e 93%) respondents think that Digital India Project will uplift the standard of living
• 7 out of 100( i..e7%) respondents think that the ‘Digital India Project’ will not be able to uplift the standard of living.

Q3) Do you want to live in a digitalized city?

The above pie chart shows the percentage of the respondents who want to live in a digitalized who don’t want to live in a digitalized city & indifference.

• 73 out of 100( i.e 73%) represent wanting to live in a digitalized city.
• 17 out of 100 (i.e 17%) respondents don’t want to live in the digitalized city.
• 10 out of 100 (i.e 10%) respondents are indifferent.

Q4) according to you what is the most important thing to converting India digitally?

The above pie chart shows the percentage of the most important thing to convert India Digitally

• According to 20 out of 100 (i.e 20%) respondents literacy for rural people is the most important thing to converting India digitally.
• According to 21 out of 100 (i.e 21) represents digital education is the most important thing to convert India digitally
• 54 out 0f 100 (i.e 54%) respondents think that things are equally important to convert India digitally.

Q5) Do you think rural people can able to adopt the digital change in our country?

The above pie chart shows whether rural people can able to adapt to the digital changes or not.

• According to 65 out of 100 (i.e 65%) respondents, rural people can able to adopt the digital changes in the country
• 35 out of 100(i.e 35%) respondents think that rural people may not be able to adopt the digital changes easily.

Q6) According to you which sector will get developed most after digitalization in India?

The above pie charts show the percentage of the sector which will get developed most after digitalization in India.

• According to 35 out of 100 (i.e 35%) respondents IT sector will get developed most after digitalization in India.
• According to 35 out of 100 (i.e 35%) respondents, the IT sector will get developed most after digitalization in India.
• 18 out of 100 (18%) respondents think the education sector will get developed most after digitalization in India.
• 27 out of 100 ( i.e 27%) respondents their service sector will get developed most after the digitalization of India.
• 20 out of 100 (i.e 20%) respondents think the rural sector will get developed most after digitalization in India.

Q7) After digitalization, which area will become more convenient to you as compared to their current services?

• According to 16 out 109 (i.e 15%) rspondenst,reseravtion will become more conevenient after digitalisation.
• 11 out o f100 (i.e 11%) respondents think banking will become more convenient for them through digitalization.
• 17 out of 100 (i.e 17%) respondents thrive electricity/water facilities will become more convenient to them after digitalization as compared to their current services.
• 46 out of 100 (i.e 46%) respondents think educational institutes will become more convenient.

Q8 ) What is your idea of ‘Digital India’?

• 23 out of 100 (i.e 23%) respondents’ idea of a digital India is an internet connection in every rural area.
• 20 out of 100 respondents’ idea of a digital India is the digitalization of all government work.
• 41 out of 100 (i.e 41%) respondents’ idea of a digital India is free in all public places.
• 11 out of 100 respondents’ idea of digital India is digital literacy.

Q9) What rating would you give to this ‘Digital India Project’?

• 24 out of 100 respondents rating for the digital India project as excellent.
• 63 out of 100 (i.e 63%) respondents rated fro ‘The Digital India project as good.
• 9 out of 100 (i.e 9% ) respondents’ rating for Digital India is fair.
• 4 % reopen dent -rating is poor.

Q10) Do you think Digital India Project will get successful?

• 62 out of 100 respondents agree that Digital India Project will be successful.
• 8 out of 100 (i.e 8%) respondents disagree about the success of the digital India project.
• The remaining 30 out of 100 (i.e 30%) respondents are indifferent about the success of the ‘Digital India Project’.
• Most people are aware of the Digital India project.
• The Digital India project will be going to uplift the standard of living.
• People want to live in a city where every work is digital.
• Literacy to every other rural people & providing digital education is a very important thing to convert -India originally.
• Rural people can able to adopt the digital changes only if they will be given proper guidance on digital literacy & knowledge.
• IT sector will get employment opportunities because this project requires fresh IT skills. There is going to be sector vast change in development – in the service sector as well as the rural sector.
• According to most the people .’The Digital India project has been rated “good”.

RECOMMENDATION

• The Indian government needs t start providing digital literacy is curvy other citizens.
• To create an impact of digital India to be realized we have to use technology to solve problems faced by Indians & for that we need a very strong culture of grounds up frugal innovation in IT.
• Our recommendation to the government would be to set up Ppp forums in each of these segments to invite the industry to participate in these where they have the domain experts & interest.
• The government has set the stage with a strong vision & an equally strong show of will to make it happen.
• The one area where this kind of a model is needed with a high level of urgency.
• It is recommended that every citizen must realize that such an important & enormous vision cannot be the government’s job alone.
• The present study is confined to a minimal sample size & may not reflect the opinion or response of the entire population in general. There were only 100 respondents taken for the survey.
• The results of our study entirely confirmed the other responses of the Mumbai citizens and might deviate in terms of actual population as a whole recommendation given effect the study is entirely dependent on the survey & secondary & primary analysis done in the report.
• Most people are aware of Digital India from the survey, we have concluded the Digital India Project will uplift the standard of living people want to live in a digitalized city as it will provide a better lifestyle through digital services. In rural area people will also be able to adopt the digital changes only if the government of India provide the proper training & digital training, it will be difficult for the Indians to get comfortable with digital changes in the country.
• Digital India will be providing loss of jobs opportunity & will help in reducing unemployment prom the country.
• Securing may become a matter of concern other than this, the error in the system may lead to a serious problem. People have lost expectations towards this project Government of India has to stand upon the expectation.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my special thanks of gratitude to my teacher as well as our principal who gave me the golden opportunity to do this wonderful Digital India project class 12. This also helped me in doing a lot of research & I come to know about so many new things I am thankful to them. Secondly, I could like to thank my parents and friends who helped me a lot in finalizing this project within the limited time frame.

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that a student of class XI has completed the research on the project.” DIGITAL INDIA” under the guidance of during the year 2018-2019

MANOJ JANGIR ECONOMIC TEACHER Signature

BIBLIOGRAPHY

www.wikipedia.com www.digitalinida.gov.in

• The digital India book
• The times of India
• Economic times
• Slide share
• Google Scholar

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DIGITAL PAYMENTS AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE INDIAN ECONOMY

Recent case studies.

India has a huge potential for digital payments. As of October 2021, the country had around 1.18 billion mobile connections, 700 million Internet users, and about 600 million smartphones. These numbers are growing rapidly each quarter. With about 25.5 billion real-time payment transactions, India ranked first in the world in terms of the number of transactions in 2020.

In 1996, Industrial Credit and Investment Corporation of India (ICICI) introduced online banking services in India, by using electronic banking at its branches. Later in 1999, banks such as HDFC, IndusInd, and Citi launched online banking facilities. The trend continued to grow with increasingly more banks launching net banking services in India. This marked the beginning of the digital transactions era in India – several new banks started offering services to users.

In 2008, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) started its journey. It was formed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) in order to create a robust payment and settlement infrastructure in India. Since then, it has launched several products such as Aadhaar Enabled Payments System, Bharat Bill Payments System (BBPS), BHIM, and Cheque Transaction System.

• Banking Card – This was launched by the Central Bank of India in India in 1980, in the form of the first credit card. MasterCard was introduced in 1988, and until 1993, several PSU banks started issuing credit cards.
• Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) – The USSD functionality was launched in 2016. This is a mobile banking facility enabling users to use mobile banking without smartphones or an Internet connection.
• Aadhaar Enabled Payment Systems (AEPS) – This is a bank-led model which allows online interoperable financial inclusion transactions at point-of-sale (PoS) through the business correspondent of any bank using the Aadhaar authentication.
• Unified Payments Interface (UPI) – UPI was developed by NPCI in 2016; it facilitates peer-to-peer, person-to-merchant transactions.
• Mobile Wallet – This is a virtual wallet that stores payment card information on a mobile device.
• Bank Pre-Paid Card – Under the motto “Pay Now, Use Later,” the pre-paid cards allow users to buy things with funds available in their cards.
• Point of Sale – Point of Sale (PoS) is a technological instrument provided by a Merchant Establishment (ME) to carry out the sale of goods or services to customers in a cashless environment.
• Internet Banking – This is an online banking method that enables customers of a bank or financial institution to carry out transactions through a portal.
• Mobile Banking – This is a service provided by banks and financial institutions to carry out financial transactions through a mobile device.
• Micro ATM – These are portable devices allowing banking transactions through card swipe machines.

In order to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy, the Government of India launched Digital India programme in 2015. The programme focuses on three main vision areas: digital infrastructure as a core utility to every citizen, governance and services on demand, and digital empowerment of citizens. Through the programme, the government wants to ensure the availability of high-speed Internet, provide mobile phones and bank accounts to every citizen, ensure availability of services in real-time from online and mobile platforms, make financial transactions electronic and cashless, and ensure digital literacy and availability of digital resources across the country.

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