India, Feb. 3 -- This 'techade' (decade of technology) will serve as an important period to close the gaps in digitization and accelerate growth in the nation's technology sector. 2023 has been identified as a crucial year for the elimination of the digital divide, as stated in The NITI Aayog 'India @ 75' report, and aggressively strengthening digital literacy, specifically among rural demographics and marginalized communities, is of the essence. The Union Budget 2023-24, steered by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, by placing emphasis on both inclusive development and youth empowerment among its key economic priorities, sets a positive tone for the way forward.

Several progressive initiatives were announced during the Budget presenta...