Only 19 percent people of 15-65 age group use Internet in India: Report

Gender Divide, mobile phone ownership, and poor infrastructure are the leading factors contributing to the downfall, particularly in rural areas.

LIRNEasia, an information, and communication technology (ICT) policy and regulation think-tank active in the Asia Pacific region and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) unveiled today After Access : ICT Access and use in India and the global south report detailing the Internet awareness and its use in various countries in the age group of 15-65.

According to the report findings, only 19 percent of the population between the 15-65 age group use Internet in India. Despite massive efforts such as the Digital India campaign, the country is still lagging behind in terms of internet usage. Gender Divide, mobile phone ownership, and poor infrastructure are the leading factors contributing to the downfall, particularly in rural areas.

(Image Credit: Twitter/COAI)

"The lack of internet awareness is a considerable problem in India, with just 35 percent of the 15-65 age population aware of what the internet is. Lack of need and the affordability are the two key barriers to smartphone adoption. In India, half of the zero income earners own a mobile phone but they are basic mobile phones,"  commented Helani Galpaya, Chief Executive Officer, LIRNEasia, while speaking at the launch.

A discussion on the findings of the #LIRNEAsiaReport #AfterAccess : ICT Access and use in India and the global south report by @LIRNEasia & @ConnectCOAI with Shri @nsivasailam, Additional Secretary, @DoT_India & Mr. Rajat Kathuria, Director, @ICRIER pic.twitter.com/7Ic1EyrroV

— COAI (@ConnectCOAI) August 7, 2018

"Mobile phone connectivity with quality access will provide means of income as locally relevant content will provide an opportunity for rural India," stated Mr. Rajat Kathuria, Director, ICRIER.

Shri N. Sivasailam, Additional Secretary, Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India said, "Fibre connectivity is essential for uninterrupted, quality internet access. Cutting cables for the beautification of a city will gravely impact connectivity. Fibre cables enable us to connect to others and create beautiful memories."