ICT-led socio-economic divide in India: A regression-based decomposition analysis

This study delves into examining the urban-rural concentration of ICT and the factors contributing to inequality in ICT access in India. We use data from the National Family Health Survey 2019-21 (NFHS-5), a nationally representative cross-sectional survey. The study applies spatial concentration and Erreygers concentration index (ECI) to quantify and decompose socioeconomic inequalities in ICT access. The findings reveal that urban areas in the western region exhibit the highest concentration of internet and mobile phone access, whereas ICT exclusion is notably prevalent in rural regions of the eastern states. Furthermore, access to ICT is concentrated among the wealthy households. The decomposition analysis reveals heterogeneity in the contributors to ICT inequality. Wealth, education and gender exacerbate overall inequality, while residence reduces inequality in mobile access. These patterns reflect persistent socio-economic and spatial divide, underlining the necessity of targeted policy interventions.