Digital India's Decade: Controversies and Claims

Digital India, launched by PM Narendra Modi, celebrates a decade with claims of transforming technology access in India. However, the Congress critiques unfulfilled promises, digital exclusion, and economic disparities. They emphasize initial groundwork by previous administrations, citing significant connectivity gaps and rising cybercrime as areas of concern.

The Modi government proudly marks the 10th anniversary of its flagship Digital India initiative, claiming it effectively democratized technology. Yet, the Congress voices strong opposition, highlighting what it describes as 'unfulfilled promises' and digital exclusion that persist despite the program's ambitious goals.

Launched on July 1, 2015, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Digital India aims to transform the country into a digitally empowered society. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the initiative, spotlighting the lack of broadband in many villages and schools, and the struggling state-owned telecom giants MTNL and BSNLamid soaring debts and cybercrimes.

Opposition leaders emphasize that while Modi's government takes credit for Digital India, much of the groundwork was laid by previous administrations, particularly with the establishment of Aadhaar and UPI. They argue that significant issues remain, including digital skills gaps, privacy concerns, and flawed data protection laws.

(With inputs from agencies.)