In the quaint village of Mahoba, Uttar Pradesh, two teenage sisters, Muskan and Nitisha, find empowerment through their smartphones. With their mother working far away in New Delhi, the internet becomes their constant companion, providing guidance and opportunities for a better future.
The internet on smartphones has become a powerful catalyst for rural women’s economic and social empowerment. Nielsen’s India Internet Report 2023 reveals that India has more than 700 million active Internet users aged two years and above as of December 2022 — 425 million (61 per cent) of whom are registered in rural India. Nearly half of the rural population is online with a usage surge of 40 per cent in 2022 as compared to 2021, the report noted. Interestingly, female users grew by 27 per cent as compared to its male counterpart that grew by 18 per cent between 2021 and 2022.
Video calling was recorded as the top preferred activity for female internet users in rural India. Other activities include video watching (59 per cent), social networking (51 per cent), online music (44 per cent), and chatting (45 per cent).
A world of knowledge and aspirations
With the advent of affordable smartphones and internet data plans, rural women like Kalpana and Babli are unlocking a world of knowledge and aspirations. Kalpana aspires to enter the police services and relies on online coaching portals, while Babli explores her passion for cooking through Instagram recipes.
Bridging distances and empowering women
The internet on smartphones becomes a bridge for rural women like Mangli Bai and Leela Ram, connecting them to their families and providing comfort. In brick kilns far from home, smartphones keep them connected to their roots and help them cope with daily challenges.
Power of sharing and watching videos
The internet revolution in rural India is witnessed in the shared usage of smartphones, especially for video watching. Many women find entertainment and relaxation through YouTube, Instagram reels, and other social media platforms.
While internet access has reduced the gender divide, challenges remain. The internet’s potential for social change needs to be harnessed through regional language content and targeted efforts to empower women in various regions.
Rural women as digital enablers
Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and women self-help groups utilize smartphones and the internet to carry out their vital work, improving healthcare and driving e-commerce businesses, enhancing rural livelihoods.
Conclusion
As smartphones and internet connectivity sweep through rural India, the lives of women are being transformed. Access to knowledge, opportunities for personal growth, and strengthened community connections empower rural women to dream big and lead fulfilling lives in the digital age.
