................... is the socio-economic difference between people in their access to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).

The correct answer is - Digital divide

Key Points

• Digital divide
  • The term refers to the socio-economic gap between individuals, households, or regions in accessing Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).
  • It encompasses disparities in:
    • Access to internet and digital devices.
    • Availability of digital literacy skills.
    • Opportunities to utilize ICT for economic and social benefits.
  • This gap is influenced by factors such as:
    • Income levels
    • Geographical location (urban vs. rural areas)
    • Educational background
  • Bridging the digital divide is critical for achieving social equity and fostering inclusive growth.

Additional Information

• Key Causes of the Digital Divide
  • Economic factors: Lower-income groups often lack resources to afford ICT tools such as smartphones, laptops, and internet connections.
  • Geographical barriers: People in remote and rural areas may face limited access to internet infrastructure.
  • Educational disparities: Lack of digital literacy skills prevents individuals from effectively using ICT tools.
• Impact of the Digital Divide
  • Hinders access to educational resources, especially in online learning environments.
  • Creates barriers to economic opportunities, such as remote work or e-commerce.
  • Leads to unequal access to government services delivered through digital platforms.
• Efforts to Reduce the Digital Divide
  • Government initiatives such as Digital India aim to improve ICT infrastructure and digital literacy across the nation.
  • Private sector involvement in providing affordable internet and devices to underserved communities.
  • Non-profit organizations focusing on digital inclusion programs.