Communication Technology and Rural Development in India: Promises and Performances

The aim of this discussion paper is to examine the extent to which communication technology has contributed towards India's rural development. The other aim is to pause and reflect over the achievements and the failures of information and communication technology (ICT) in the development march where millions are struggling to improve the rural quality of life. The analysis of selected communication projects for rural development before media liberalisation and in post liberlisation indicated continued media advantage to urban rich. The analysis indicates that “pro-poor” development issues have been pushed aside in favour of urban upcoming rich after media privatisation-leading to proliferation of private and public broadcasting and ICT in favour of consumerism and entertainment. The current communication policy of the country, which on the face of it is proactive for rural development, but remains urban “pro-rich” in effect. Besides, forces of market economy, focused towards profits, have begun to shape broadcasting and information technology programming philosophy, content and programme schedule.