Trai seeks views on ways to boost digital connectivity/literacy
In a discussion paper, issued Thursday, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has invited views on initiatives to increase digital connectivity, digital affordability and digital literacy. It has also sought suggestions on steps needed to make satellite internet a viable option for providing connectivity in remote/ inaccessible areas.
“While availability of basic access infrastructure is a necessary condition for digital inclusion, it cannot be treated as a sufficient condition.
A robust policy framework provides the right impetus to digital inclusion,” Trai said in its consultation paper on `digital inclusion in the era of emerging technologies.
It has also asked if the parameters – connectivity, affordability and literacy — are sufficient to gauge digital inclusion in the country, in addition to seeking suggestions on the definition of digital inclusion. It also sought views on whether existing global indices to measure digital inclusion are sufficient to represent the measure of digital inclusion, or if new indices must be added.
The issues for consultation have been divided into the parameters mentioned, each tackling different questions to enhance connectivity, affordability and literacy around digital services.
“Is there any need to take steps to make satellite internet a viable option for providing connectivity to remote/ inaccessible areas?” Trai has asked.
