Awareness and Use of Digital Technology among Tribal Women in Kolli Hills

Abstract

It is true that information technology has gigantic potential in accelerating economic growth in all sectors of the economy through improved access to information. Access to IT infrastructure in all levels of governance and administration enhances relations between the citizens and the government and promotes transparency. Since digital empowerment and inclusion multiplier impact on economic growth, it is thus necessary to any nation. The innovative flagship program of the Central Government, in this case, is called Digital India, which is focused on eradicating the digital divide among the residents of the country and creating a digitally empowered society. The digital divide restrains the citizens in gaining knowledge on the benefits of modern life, work, and engagement. The digital divide is huge in the rural areas and in underprivileged members of the community, such as the tribe people. Aggressive groups residing in remote and terrine environments are also among the disadvantaged groups in the population where digital divide is most evident. The analysis of the data collected in the Malayali, one of the largest tribal groups of the Kolli Hills. The findings indicate that the prevalence of understanding and using digital technology and services are very low among tribal women, which is a sign of the low digital inclusion levels of marginalised communities.