Section Article

Digital Divide and Educational Inequalities in Rural India
Author(s): Mrs. Arpna Singh

Abstract
This paper explores the intersection of the digital divide and educational inequalities in rural India analyzing how technological gaps have shaped access to learning quality of education and opportunities for social mobility. In the digital era access to information and communication technologies has become essential for educational participation. However rural India continues to struggle with inadequate infrastructure poor connectivity limited affordability and low levels of digital literacy. These challenges exacerbate long-standing disparities in educational access particularly for marginalized communities women and children from economically weaker sections. The paper situates the issue within the framework of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities) and India’s national policy initiatives such as the Digital India campaign and National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Drawing upon government reports academic research and case studies it argues that bridging the digital divide is critical for reducing educational inequalities and ensuring inclusive growth. Without targeted interventions the digital revolution risks deepening social exclusion instead of alleviating it.