Highlighting the transformative power of digitization, Dennis Francis, President of the 78th UN General Assembly session, praised India for its remarkable achievements in leveraging technology to drive rapid development. Over the past 5-6 years, India’s digital advancements have lifted 800 million people out of poverty.
Francis pointed out how rural communities in India now conduct financial transactions, pay bills, and manage their businesses effortlessly using smartphones. He pointed out that India’s rapid development highlights how smartphones have helped 800 million people rise out of poverty.
The UNGA President attributed this success to India’s extensive internet coverage and high cellphone usage, which has facilitated financial inclusion even in remote areas. He remarked, “Rural farmers in India, who previously had no access to banking, now handle all their financial needs via their smartphones. This widespread internet access has been a crucial factor in India’s progress.”
Francis also addressed the disparity between India and many other countries in the Global South, emphasizing the need for equitable digital access. He stated, “There is a significant gap in digital infrastructure across the Global South, and addressing this inequality is essential for shaping a global framework for digitization.”
The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has placed a strong emphasis on digitization over the past decade. Initiatives like JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhar, Mobile) have been instrumental in promoting digital payments and financial inclusion. This approach has successfully connected people nationwide, including in rural areas, and facilitated direct access to government services and social benefits through linked bank accounts.
