Name: Ayisha Banu
Country: India

Year: 2025
Volume: Volume No: 12, Issue No: 2, Year: 2025 (Special Issue)
Page Number: 12-17
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17866457

ABSTRACT
The use of digital technology has become vital in today’s society. Almost every task requires
the use of technology. Hence, it has become necessary for everyone to be aware and skilled in
using technology to fully participate in society and have access to essential services. Despite
this, a portion of the population remains unaware about the use and access to digital
technology, and this is where the term “digital divide.” is used. The digital divide refers to
persistent inequalities in access to, skills for, and benefits from digital technologies. Despite
significant progress in expanding connectivity, disparities remain across income groups,
gender, age, geography, and education levels. This paper examines the conceptual
dimensions of the digital divide, explores the socio-economic consequences of exclusion, and
evaluates strategies that have been employed to close these gaps. Findings suggest that while
technological progress has reduced some forms of inequality, structural barriers rooted in
income distribution, geography, and institutional capacity continue to reproduce digital
exclusion. It concludes by outlining policy recommendations that can guide governments,
development partners, and institutions toward sustainable solutions for equitable digital
participation.
Keywords: digital divide, digital equity, broadband, digital inclusion, ICT policy, socioeconomic inequality