Digital Exclusion among Rural Women: An Emerging Challenge

Abstract Digital technology has become increasingly important in accessing education, employment, financial services, government schemes, health information and opportunities for social participation. However, the expansion of digital technologies has not benefited all sections of society equally. Rural women may experience digital exclusion because of limited access to smartphones and internet connectivity, affordability constraints, inadequate digital literacy, language barriers, family restrictions, safety concerns and limited confidence in using digital services. This paper examines digital exclusion among rural women as a broader social and developmental issue rather than merely a technological problem. The study focuses on selected rural villages of Kolhapur district and considers women aged 18 years and above. A descriptive and exploratory research design is proposed, using a quantitative approach with a small qualitative component. Data are proposed to be collected through structured interviews and focus group discussions, with analysis based on frequencies, percentages, cross-tabulation, chi-square and thematic analysis. The study aims to examine levels of digital access, identify major barriers, understand the use of digital platforms for information, education, employment and government welfare services, and assess the social and economic consequences of digital exclusion. It also highlights the role of social work interventions such as digital literacy, community awareness, capacity building, women's self-help groups and advocacy in promoting digital inclusion, empowerment and equitable rural development.