Digital Infrastructure And Educational Access In Post-Pandemic India: A State-Level Analysis Of Socioeconomic Inequality And The Digital Divide

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the transition toward digital education in India, making access to digital infrastructure a critical determinant of educational participation. This study examines the relationship between digital infrastructure and educational access across Indian states in the post-pandemic context, with a particular focus on socioeconomic inequality and the digital divide. Using a state-level dataset, the study analyzes key indicators such as internet availability, computer facilities, and electricity access in relation to educational access. A quantitative approach was adopted, incorporating descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression techniques to evaluate the impact of digital infrastructure on educational outcomes. The findings reveal significant disparities in digital infrastructure across states, with stronger infrastructure associated with higher levels of educational access. The results also indicate that states with greater socioeconomic disadvantage tend to exhibit lower levels of digital access, reinforcing existing inequalities. The study highlights that while digital education has expanded opportunities for learning, it has also intensified structural disparities due to uneven access to technological resources. In the post-pandemic era, addressing these inequalities is essential to ensure inclusive and equitable access to education. The findings contribute to the understanding of the digital divide in India and underscore the importance of balanced infrastructure development in bridging gaps in educational access.