Tech gap realities

           Hey! Today I'm sharing something which really questioned the growth of technology.

           Growing up in the city, technology has always been a big part of my life. From smartphones to high-speed internet, I've had access to it all. But as I've grown older, I've realized that not everyone has the same access to technology, especially people living in rural areas and senior citizens.

         When I visit rural areas, I notice that things are different. Internet connection is slow, and sometimes it's hard to get a signal at all. People don't use smartphones as much, and some businesses don't even accept digital payments. It's like stepping back in time compared to the tech-savvy city life I'm used to. 

         I've also seen how technology can be a challenge for senior citizens, not only in rural areas but also in Metropolitan cities like Chennai. Once during a NSS survey I met a dhobi, who still isn't aware of the beneficiary schemes due to lack of proper knowledge of e- applications.

           I've also noticed that street vendors also face this problem. Street vendors play a vital role in urban life, providing convenient access to goods and services. However, many of them face challenges when it comes to adopting technology in their businesses.

          I visited a grandpa's store in West Tambaram to purchase some saplings. As I selected a few and expressed my intention to pay using Google Pay, he informed me that he neither had Google Pay nor owned an Android phone. I really couldn't help but express my surprise hearing this. Here we were, in the heart of Chennai, a city known for its rapid technological advancements, IT parks and bustling urban life, yet encountering someone who still relied on a simple keypad phone for daily communication and business transactions.

           Growing up surrounded by technology in the city, I've come to appreciate its importance in our lives. However, witnessing the struggles faced by those who lack access or knowledge has made me realize the significance of bridging the digital divide. Let's find a solution to this soon... after all they're also a major part of the society.