Ahmedabad: Anant National University revealed the results of its ICSSR-funded research regarding the effects of the Digital India initiative on youth in both urban and rural areas of Gujarat during a Research Dissemination Workshop on April 16, 2025. The study was led by Dr. Subhalaxmi Mohapatra, Associate Professor at Anant National University; Dr. Diti Pundrik Vyas, Associate Professor at the same institution; and Dr. Subhadip Roy, Professor at IIM Ahmedabad. The research focused on the variations in digital usage patterns between urban and rural populations and suggested strategies and policy adjustments to bridge the digital divide.
The workshop included a panel discussion featuring esteemed experts, such as Mr. Rohit Kumar, Founding Partner at The Quantum Hub and Co-founder of Young Leaders for Active Citizenship (YLAC) and The Quantum Hub Consulting; Prof. Rajat Sharma, Associate Professor at IIM Ahmedabad; Dr. Dignesh Vachani, Medical Officer at PHC Majevadi; and Dr. Atul Mehta, CEO of Pay10. Moderated by Prof. Subhadip Roy, the panel delved into key insights and important findings from the research.
The research employed a mixed methodology approach, analyzing data from 450 respondents in Gandhinagar and Kutch. It provided quantitative insights through statistical tests and qualitative perspectives through thematic analysis. The results indicate that digital payment platforms, like UPI and Google Pay, have greatly enhanced financial inclusion, with urban youth actively engaging with these digital tools more than their rural peers. While men primarily utilise digital financial services, women, especially in urban settings, leverage digital tools for entrepreneurship and expand their businesses through online marketplaces. Additionally, social media platforms have been crucial in boosting youth confidence, promoting self-expression, and encouraging community engagement.
At the workshop, Mr. Rohit Kumar said, “This research highlights how digital access can unlock agency, opportunity, and civic participation—but only when infrastructure, literacy, and social barriers are meaningfully addressed.” Talking at the event, Prof. Rajat Sharma highlighted, “Digital India has transformed interactions between government, industry, and citizens, shifting from mere access to inclusive and empowered usage.”
The study also found that rural women experience newfound decision-making power through digital literacy yet face more significant challenges in accessing services due to social constraints and limited awareness. Dr. Dignesh Vachani shared, “Healthcare applications such as Teleconsultation, ABHA, and e-Hospital are improving services. Still, stronger internet connectivity and integrated digital systems are needed to maximise their impact.”
Adding his insights, Dr. Atul Mehta said, “**The initial scepticism that people had about digital payment acceptance is no longer there. Today, it is well accepted and embraced by all stakeholders. It works as a way of life.” Summarising the panel discussion, Prof. Subhadip Roy said, “Digital India has successfully driven digital inclusion and behavioural change in digital literacy, healthcare, and financial inclusion. It has also been able to drive social change and help in empowering multiple stakeholders.”
The study suggests implementing policy interventions to improve digital competency among youth. This includes expanding digital literacy programs, incorporating digital skills training in educational curricula, and promoting gender-focused awareness campaigns. It is vital to enhance public-private partnerships for the development of digital infrastructure, establish Digital Resource Centres, and support digital entrepreneurship through micro-financing to promote inclusive technological progress. The study also highlights that while the Digital India initiative has made significant strides in narrowing the urban-rural divide, ongoing efforts in education, financial assistance, and infrastructure development are crucial for ensuring equitable digital participation.
