Use of Information technology in rural development: lessons for developing countries

Abstract

The paper describes different types of programmes and activities being undertaking to develop rural areas in many developing countries. It documents some experience which is already available on the use of information technology for supporting the task of rural development. A few experiments in India which have shown specific advantages derived from the use of computers at the field level are described briefly. Government of India took a bold initiative in promoting wide spread use of IT at the field level. Early surveys indicate that the program has only been partially successful. Some of the lessons that can be drawn for other developing countries which are contemplating the use of computers in rural areas are presented. The paper concludes by highlighting that the task of improving administration of rural development programmes is not just a matter of providing access to technology. Management of the whole process is an equally important aspect.