E-governance in rural India still struggles with the digital divide. Many rural people cannot use digital public services even though the government has invested heavily in digital systems under the Digital India program. Low literacy, fear of technology, poor access to devices and weak trust in online services stop people from using digital platforms. Because of this, many citizens remain outside the system and do not take part in digital governance.
This study explains the reasons for the digital divide in rural e-governance using real data from Common Service Centres in Madhya Pradesh. The researchers used a structured questionnaire with 360 rural people from six districts. They applied simple statistical methods to study how key factors affect the use of e-governance services. The results show that digital literacy, access to infrastructure, trust in institutions and service quality strongly influence whether people use these services.
The study shows that digital literacy and trust in institutions matter more than just having internet or devices. Internet access and service centres alone do not make people use digital services. People avoid online services when they lack basic digital skills, confidence and trust in the system, even if the services are available. The study also finds that service quality, quick response and good user experience strongly affect whether people choose to use digital platforms.
Solving the rural digital divide needs more than just technology. It needs people-focused governance that builds skills, spreads digital awareness, grows trust and improves services. Communities need training, local digital help and simple service systems. These steps will not only connect rural people to digital services but also help them use them with confidence.
This paper adds real evidence to digital governance research. It shows the true nature of the rural digital divide and offers clear, practical, and policy ideas to improve inclusive, people-friendly and long-lasting e-governance in India.
Digital Divide, E-Governance, Rural Development, CSCs, Digital Inclusion, India.
. Bridging the Digital Divide through E-Governance: An Empirical Study of Rural Inclusion and Service Accessibility in Madhya Pradesh, India. Indian Journal of Modern Research and Reviews. 2026; 4(1):188-195
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