Challenges and Barriers to Bridging Digital Divide

Abstract

Modernisation of present day society largely depends on the numbers of individuals using internet as a part of their daily life. India is going through the important phase of modernisation with the help of revolution in Information and Communication Technology and “Digital India” scheme launched by Indian government. Since around 60% of the total population lives in rural or sub-urban regions, so it seems to be very challenging to project the idea of digital India to such populations. Here the term “Digital Divide” comes into the picture which states about the disparity between information-rich and information-poor people. Government schemes like ‘Digital India’ project are an approach towards diminishing the digital divide. Libraries as a social service institution has to play a major role in minifying the gap of digital divide. They can impart crucial role in making India a global digital power. Librarians and information professionals have to develop certain user-oriented skills and redefine their service menu. This paper aims to outline the different areas in which librarians can work together to minimize the gap of digital divide in rural as well urban regions. It also discusses the possible causes for the digital divide in India. Keeping all the important factors of above mentioned topics, this paper highlights the basic concept of digital divide and role of librarians in uplifting the socioeconomic status of the common people.