Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for the democratisation of technology to bridge the data divide across the globe. During his address at the G20 Development Ministers’ Meeting, PM Modi said that digitalisation has brought about a revolutionary change in India and pointed out that high-quality data is critical for meaningful policy-making, efficient resource allocation, and effective public service delivery. He said technology is being used as a tool to empower people, make data accessible, and ensure inclusivity.
PM Modi added that development is a core issue for the global south countries and they must send a strong message to the world about the action plan required to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs). He said that since global south countries were severely impacted by the disruptions created due to the Covid-19 pandemic while geo-political tensions were responsible for food, fuel, and fertiliser crises, and in such conditions, the decisions these countries make are significant for humanity as a whole.
Highlighting the issue of the growing data divide, the PM elaborated that in India, digitalisation has brought about a revolutionary change where technology is being used as a tool to empower people, make data accessible, and ensure inclusivity. He added that India, which has seen a significant uptick in digitalisation, would be willing to share its experience with other developing nations.
