A decade of Digital India now a people's movement, central to self-reliance

EN, we embarked on a bold journey into uncharted territory with great conviction.

- NARENDRA MODI Prime Minister of India

While decades were spent doubting the ability of Indians to use technology, we changed that approach and trusted their ability to use technology. While decades were spent thinking that using technology would deepen the gap between the haves and the have-nots, we changed this mindset and used technology to eliminate the gap.

When the intent is right, innovation empowers the less empowered. When the approach is inclusive, technology changes the lives of those on the margins. This belief laid the foundation for Digital India: a mission to democratise access, build an inclusive digital infrastructure, and provide opportunities for all.

In 2014, internet penetration was limited, digital literacy was low, and online access to government services was scarce. Many doubted whether a country as vast and diverse as India could truly go digital.

Today, that question has been answered not just in data and dashboards, but in the lives of 140 crore Indians. From how we govern, to how we learn, transact, and build, Digital India is everywhere.

Bridging the Digital Divide In 2014, India had around 25 crore internet connections. Today, that number has grown to over 97 crores. Over 42 lakh kilometres of Optical Fibre Cable, equivalent to 11 times the distance between Earth and the Moon, now connects even the most remote villages.

India's 5G rollout is among the fastest in the world, with 4.81 lakh base stations installed in just two years. High-speed internet now reaches urban hubs and forward military posts alike, including Galwan, Siachen, and Ladakh.