India scores 50+ in digital connectivity

By agencies   |   Wednesday, 26 April 2006, 19:30 IST
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BANGALORE: The digital divide between the developed and emerging nations is narrowing, as citizens in emerging markets get online via computers and mobile phones, a ranking of Web-savvy nations showed on Wednesday. The annual study published by IBM and The Economist said “Encouraging is the apparent narrowing of the digital divide, with some regions now on a par with developed nations.” The study found, "This is particularly evident in basic connectivity: emerging markets are providing the vast majority of the world's new phone and Internet connections.” Within India, the city of Bangalore has almost the same level of Internet and mobile phone connections as developed nations, said Peter Korsten, European director at IBM's Institute for Business Value. "This is the first time we see a level playing field between developed and developing nations in terms of connectivity. It's up to governments to take advantage with education and other initiatives," he said. The survey looks beyond basic connections and also studies how the Internet is being used to improve productivity and reduce costs, including online access to public services.