India's digital ecosystem is rapidly expanding, fostering financial inclusion, public-service delivery, and economic opportunities for women and rural communities. According to Darakhshan Hassan Bhat, representative of Rajasthan Samgrah Kalyan Sansthan (RSKS India), the country's digital transformation has made significant strides. The number of internet users and subscribers has grown from around 25.15 crore in 2014 to over 109 crore. This expansion has contributed to increased access to formal banking and government welfare schemes.
The growth of digital infrastructure has led to a substantial increase in Jan Dhan accounts, with over 55 crore accounts opened. Women account for 55.7 per cent of account holders, indicating a significant step towards financial inclusion. Bhat highlighted the role of Direct Benefit Transfer in welfare delivery, stating that over Rs. 53 lakh crore has been transferred directly to beneficiaries. This initiative aims to reduce leakages and ensure that benefits reach the intended recipients.
India's digital payments ecosystem has also experienced rapid growth, with over 20 billion UPI transactions processed every month. The presence of over 5.6 lakh Common Service Centres has extended digital and public services to rural areas, bridging the gap between urban and rural communities. These centres provide a range of services, including digital literacy, online education, and healthcare.
Focusing on women's participation in the digital and financial ecosystem, Bhat noted that over 10 crore rural women are connected through Self-Help Groups. This network creates opportunities for financial inclusion and women-led economic activity. The scale of India's digital public infrastructure is also noteworthy, with over 1.44 billion Aadhaar enrolments and over 724.3 million DigiLocker users.
Bhat emphasized that the success of digital transformation should be measured not only by technological expansion but also by its ability to improve access, opportunity, and dignity for people at the last mile. She stressed that digital progress becomes meaningful when technology reaches those who have traditionally remained furthest from opportunity. This perspective highlights the need for inclusive and people-centred digital ecosystems.
Bhat called for greater cooperation among governments, international institutions, civil society, and technology partners to build a digital ecosystem that is inclusive, secure, accessible, and people-centred. She urged the international community to ensure that women, rural communities, and vulnerable sections are not left behind as digital transformation continues to accelerate. This requires a collaborative effort to address the digital divide and promote equitable growth.
The RSKS India representative's address at the 63rd Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council underscores the significance of India's digital transformation in promoting human rights and sustainable development. By leveraging technology, India aims to create a more inclusive and equitable society, where everyone has access to opportunities and services.
Key points
- India's digital transformation has led to significant growth in financial inclusion, with over 55 crore Jan Dhan accounts opened.
- The country's digital payments ecosystem has experienced rapid growth, with over 20 billion UPI transactions processed every month.
- Over 10 crore rural women are connected through Self-Help Groups, creating opportunities for financial inclusion and women-led economic activity.
