DIGITAL DIVIDE AND ITS IMPACT ON ACCESS TO QUALITY EDUCATION IN RURAL AREAS OF JALPAIGURI DISTRICT, WEST BENGAL, INDIA

Abstract

The rapid expansion of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has transformed the 
global education system by improving access to knowledge, digital learning platforms, and 
interactive pedagogical methods. However, the unequal distribution of digital resources has created 
a significant “digital divide,” especially in rural regions of developing countries like India. This 
study examines the digital divide and its impact on access to quality education in the rural areas of 
Jalpaiguri District. The research investigates disparities in internet connectivity, digital device 
ownership, digital literacy, and online educational accessibility among rural students. The study is 
based on both primary and secondary data collected from villages, schools, government reports, 
census data, journal articles, and educational surveys. The findings reveal that socio-economic 
inequality, inadequate infrastructure, unstable electricity, low parental awareness, and poor digital 
literacy significantly restrict rural students’ educational opportunities. The study further 
demonstrates that the digital divide contributes to academic inequality, increased dropout risks, 
limited access to e-learning resources, and reduced participation in modern educational systems. The 
paper suggests policy interventions including rural digital infrastructure development, subsidized 
internet services, digital literacy campaigns, teacher training, and community-based smart learning 
centers. Bridging the digital divide is essential for ensuring equitable and inclusive education in rural 
Jalpaiguri and for achieving sustainable educational development in India.