Topic-Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.
1) Examine the effect of increasing digitization and e-governance on the aged population in India.(250 words)
Why this question:
In the era of 4.0 Industrial revolution, the article captures a discussion upon the effect of technology on elderly people in India, the factors which have led to some change in the status of elderly, the issues plaguing them and the solutions through ICT in addressing them. UPSC in the past has asked about the effect of globalization on elderly people in India , and thus the question is of great importance.
Key demands of the question:
The question is about analyzing the mixed impact of increasing digitization and effect of carrying out the functions and achieving the results of governance through the utilization of ICT (Information and Communications Technology) on the aged population of India.
Directive word
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we have to look into the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction
A good start would be with some fact highlighting change in the lives of elderly population due to coming of Digitisation.
Body
The body of the answer should base on examples and convey the following dimensions:
- What are the challenges Digitization and increasing e-governance has posed on the elderly; lack of knowledge to use technology owing to illiteracy, lack of access to technology, technology may just corner the aged people even more etc.
- Positives – access to services at the click of a mouse or at fingertips with mobile phones; e- living certificates, direct transfer of pensions to accounts, social connectivity sitting at home etc.
- Analyse the above pros and cons and convey you overall opinion.
Conclusion
Conclude that digitization and increased technology in Governance has mixed impact on aged population. It has seemingly prolonged life and increased the purpose of life for the old.
