Social Equity, the Digital Divide and E-Governance: An Analysis of E-Governance Initiatives in India

This chapter critically assesses how e-government initiatives in India are attempting to contend with social equity issues posed by the deepening digital divide and draws conclusions regarding the value and reach of e-government initiatives. The chapter summarizes current understandings of the digital divide, and uses those understandings to develop a characterization of those constituents who are not reached by e-government initiatives and services. The chapter asserts that those who do not have the ability to access and use ICT are excluded from using e-government initiatives and services, and discusses examples of actions that begin to mitigate the social equity effects of the digital divide.

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