As India races toward a digital future, modern engineering solutions are playing a pivotal role in ensuring that this transformation is inclusive. With the integration of cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Real-Time Engagement (RTE), India is making strides in bridging the digital divide and empowering rural and needful communities through digital inclusion.
Ranga Jagannath, Senior Director – Growth at Agora, highlights the significance of these efforts: “In the pursuit of a digitally inclusive India, prioritizing rural and needful communities has never been more crucial. Indian companies are leading the way in developing technologies that aim to bridge the digital divide, ensuring equitable access to digital resources and opportunities across both urban and rural areas. By leveraging innovations such as real-time engagement (RTE), artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT), businesses are spearheading initiatives to bring essential services like education, healthcare, and financial inclusion to remote and previously unconnected regions. Platforms like Agora are pivotal in enabling real-time video and voice solutions, allowing developers and product owners to deliver seamless, interactive experiences regardless of infrastructure constraints. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize areas where digital connectivity has been historically limited, making critical services accessible to those who need them most. By developing solutions tailored to local needs—such as affordable devices, simplified user interfaces, and optimized connectivity—technology is becoming increasingly accessible and impactful. Ultimately, these efforts go beyond mere technological advancements; they are about fostering inclusion and empowerment. By ensuring equitable access to digital tools, companies are unlocking new economic opportunities, supporting small businesses, and creating pathways for individuals and communities to thrive in an increasingly digital world.”
Yuvraj Shidhaye, Founder and Director of TreadBinary, emphasizes the importance of digital inclusion alongside technological advancements: “Hyderabad and Bangalore are using AI-powered traffic management systems that adjust traffic lights in real time, reducing congestion and improving road safety. Tata Steel and Mahindra are using predictive maintenance in their manufacturing processes to reduce downtime, lower costs, and increase productivity. These AI systems analyze machine data in real time, predicting downtimes before they even happen. As we approach Engineers’ Day, I will talk about two powerful forces driving this transformation: Artificial Intelligence and Digital Inclusion. Along with the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, there is an equally important mission for us as engineers—bridging the digital divide. In a country as diverse as India, digital inclusion is key to ensuring that no one gets left behind. Engineers are developing technologies that provide rural India with access to education, healthcare, and essential services through digital platforms. Take, for example, Digital India’s Common Service Centers, where engineers work behind the scenes to create apps and platforms that offer everything from digital banking to telemedicine in villages. Companies like Jio and Airtel are also contributing by expanding affordable, high-speed data across India, including rural regions, creating new opportunities for education, employment, and entrepreneurship. As engineers, our role is not just to create but to innovate with purpose. AI is transforming industries, and digital inclusion is transforming lives. This Engineers’ Day, let’s celebrate the incredible power of engineering.”
Vishal Jain, CEO and Co-founder of Roadcast, sheds light on how technology is empowering rural communities: “Digital inclusion in India is rapidly advancing through innovative engineering solutions that bridge the digital divide and ensure access to technology for rural and needful communities. Companies across the country are developing technologies that bring digital resources and services to these areas, fostering greater equity and opportunity. One prominent example is the development of low-cost, robust digital devices designed for rural environments. Organizations like the Digital Empowerment Foundation (DEF) are setting up solar- powered Wi-Fi hotspots in remote villages, providing access to the internet where traditional infrastructure is lacking. These centers offer a range of services, from educational resources to government e-services, significantly improving the quality of life for rural residents. Additionally, mobile technology is being harnessed to deliver digital services. Mobile apps and platforms are being developed to provide essential services, such as healthcare and financial inclusion, directly to users in needful areas. The government’s Digital India initiative supports these efforts by promoting the creation of digital infrastructure and services that reach even the most remote communities. For instance, high-tech fleet management systems are playing a crucial role in this effort. These systems use advanced GPS tracking and real-time driver monitoring to ensure efficient service delivery even in remote areas. For instance, by optimizing routes and tracking fuel usage, these technologies help businesses reach needful communities with essential services. Fuel sensors and monitoring tools also reduce logistical challenges, making sure that supplies and services are available where they are most needed. This not only enhances access to digital resources but also supports economic development in rural regions. It’s a tech-driven approach to ensuring that everyone, no matter their location, can enjoy the benefits of digital advancements. By leveraging innovative engineering solutions, India is making strides toward digital inclusion, ensuring that technology benefits all citizens, regardless of their geographic or economic.”
Engineering innovations are not limited to connectivity. Ankit Sinha, Co-founder and CTO of Tagbin, explains how localized digital content and user-friendly, affordable technology are being developed to cater to the specific needs of rural communities: “In India, the digital divide remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural and needful communities. However, various engineering solutions are being developed to bridge this gap, ensuring broader access to digital resources and services. These efforts are driven by the belief that access to digital resources is key to unlocking opportunities in education, healthcare, and thus lead to economic growth. One of the primary strategies involves enhancing digital infrastructure. High-speed broadband networks are being extended to remote areas, providing the backbone for digital connectivity. Digital literacy initiatives are equally important. Programs aimed at educating people about using digital tools and the internet are being implemented. These initiatives often include training sessions, workshops, and the establishment of digital learning centers in rural areas. To empower these communities, innovative tech solutions are being developed. For instance, interactive learning apps designed to work on low-cost smartphones, making education accessible even in the most remote villages. Additionally, the development of localized digital content is crucial. Creating content in regional languages and tailoring it to the specific needs of rural communities ensures that digital resources are accessible and relevant. Furthermore, digital financial services are being expanded to include rural populations. Mobile banking, digital payment systems, and microfinance platforms are providing financial inclusion, allowing people to participate in the digital economy. Today, technologies don’t just stop at access—they’re enabling farmers to get real-time data on crop prices, healthcare workers to connect with doctors through telemedicine, and students to learn from online platforms. The focus on user-friendly, affordable technology is critical. By creating digital tools that cater specifically to the needs of these communities, companies are ensuring that the digital revolution reaches all corners of the country. It’s about more than just providing access—it’s about empowering people with the tools and knowledge to improve their lives, closing the digital gap, and creating a more inclusive future for India.”
The government’s Digital India initiative, supported by both private and public sectors, is further fueling these efforts. Shashank Silhare, Engagement Partner at Practus, points out: “Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) defines “Digital Divide” as disparity among individuals, households, businesses, and geographic regions of varying socio-economic standings affecting their access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) and their utilization of the Internet for a diverse range of activities. While GoI has made progress in narrowing the digital divide, several challenges still persist. Infrastructure limitations, especially in rural areas hinders access to the internet and digital devices. However, several companies, both from the private sector and through public-private partnerships, are playing a significant role in reducing the digital divide in India. Their efforts span across providing affordable internet access, low-cost devices, digital literacy, and localized content. Google launched the Internet Saathi program in collaboration with Tata Trusts to improve digital literacy among rural women. The program has trained over 30 million women across 300,000 villages to use the internet. Amazon has launched initiatives like Amazon Saheli, which empowers women entrepreneurs, and Amazon Kisan, which helps farmers access the digital marketplace. These programs focus on bridging the rural-urban divide by enabling rural communities to access e-commerce platforms. Jio revolutionized the telecom sector by offering low-cost 4G data and affordable smartphones, making internet access available to millions of Indians, especially in rural areas. Jio also offers a range of digital services such as JioTV, JioSaavn, and JioMeet, creating an ecosystem that encourages digital consumption across different segments of the population.”
Sameer Goyal, Head of Engineering, Acuity Knowledge Partners, said: “On this National Engineers Day, we celebrate the remarkable strides Indian engineering has made in shaping a better future for India and the world. The rise of AI and machine learning is not just a technological advancement but a revolution that is transforming engineering practices across the nation. From predictive maintenance in manufacturing, which enhances efficiency and reduces downtime, to the development of smart infrastructure that makes our cities more sustainable and livable, AI and machine learning are at the forefront of this transformation. These technologies are positioning India as a global leader in innovation and engineering excellence. As engineers, our commitment to digital inclusion is unwavering. Through various efforts and initiatives we are helping bridge the digital divide, ensuring that rural and underserved communities have access to vital digital resources and services. This effort is crucial in empowering every citizen and fostering inclusive growth. By providing digital literacy and connectivity, we are enabling these communities to participate fully in the digital economy, thereby driving socio-economic development. We also take this opportunity to honor the incredible women engineers at the firm who are making significant contributions in what has traditionally been a male-dominated field. Their leadership, creativity, and perseverance are breaking barriers and setting new standards of excellence. These women are not just role models within our organization but also inspire the next generation of engineers to pursue their dreams and contribute to the field of engineering. Together, we are engineering a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Let us continue to innovate, include, and inspire as we build solutions that make a difference globally. Best wishes for the National Engineers Day 2024”
As India celebrates Engineers’ Day, it’s clear that modern engineering solutions are not only transforming industries but also transforming lives. By harnessing the power of AI, IoT, and other innovations, engineers are ensuring that the digital revolution reaches every corner of the country, empowering individuals and communities alike.
Raj Nair, General Body Member, Pan IIT Alumni India, said: “Today, we remember with awe and respect our visionary Sir M Visvesvaraya, who is the father of Indian engineering. Thanks to him, Indian engineering stands at the intersection of rapid transformation and immense opportunity. Emerging technologies like Generative AI (GenAI) are reshaping engineering and manufacturing as much as it is redefining financial services, retail, entertainment, energy industries, etc. As these advancements open new career paths, Indian engineers, including those from IITs, must adapt and upskill to stay competitive in the global market. Beyond technical expertise, collaboration, networking, and active participation in Incubation Centres, Entrepreneurship Cells, mentorship programs, and hackathons within educational institutions are essential. These platforms offer opportunities to showcase talent, scale innovative ideas through startups with investor backing, and foster creativity via Innovation Cells.
By engaging in these initiatives and mastering emerging technologies, engineers can position themselves as key industry growth drivers. As we celebrate Engineering Day, let us as engineers rededicate our time and skills to design solutions that bring real value to the underprivileged in India and the world.”
