Bridging the Digital Divide: A Survey of E-Initiatives in India.

With the advances in the area of Information Technology, the digital divide, i.e., the gap between the urban people (who have easy access to technology) and rural people (who do not have an easy access to technology) is increasing day-by-day. The success story of the Indian IT industry has benefitted only the urban populace, whereas the overall scenario for rural India is pathetic. Today, the Indian government authorities and organizations, and many NGOs are developing and experimenting with various business models, all over the country, with the objective of providing IT means and solutions to the rural masses; and at the same time taking care of their business interests. This paper examines and takes note of such IT initiatives, and highlights their basic approaches and makes distinction in terms of their objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]