Nasscom Foundation, in collaboration with LEAD at Krea University, unveiled a study titled Digital Dividends: Understanding the Use of Social Commerce by Women Entrepreneurs in Rural India at the TechForGood India Conclave 2024. The conclave served as a platform for various stakeholders, including civil society, social innovators, entrepreneurs, government representatives, and leaders in technology and development, to come together and collaborate towards accelerating India’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) objectives.
The study explores the current trends, adoption of digital solutions, and the role of stakeholders in empowering rural women entrepreneurs through enhanced availability, accessibility, and awareness of social commerce and its business utility. It aims to harness the potential of technology to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusivity in rural areas.
Additionally, Nasscom Foundation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bhashini to leverage their platform for translating digital literacy and artificial intelligence (AI) content into regional languages. This partnership aims to address language barriers, enhance accessibility, and bolster educational outreach, thereby reinforcing the network of partner organizations.
Nidhi Bhasin, CEO of Nasscom Foundation, emphasized the urgency of taking action today for a better future. The TechForGood India Conclave 2024 aims to unite changemakers and promote bold action on critical issues such as sustainability, digital equity, and social innovation. Through collaborations like the one with Bhashini, Nasscom Foundation aims to make a meaningful impact on accessibility, digital literacy, and foster digital inclusion.
Abhishek Singh, President & CEO of National e-Governance Division (MeitY), highlighted the importance of leveraging technology for the larger social good. He emphasized the need for collaboration among government, industry, and the non-profit sector to achieve the SDGs, empower people, spread education to remote areas, and ensure access to healthcare and basic rights for all. The exchange of ideas and thoughts during the conclave is expected to contribute significantly to addressing these challenges.
Amitabh Nag, CEO of Bhashini, expressed their commitment to advancing digital literacy and AI education by bridging language barriers and promoting digital inclusion. Bhashini’s platform will serve as a cornerstone for translating digital literacy content into regional languages, extending educational programs to remote areas. This collaboration will help accelerate the SDG agenda and address service delivery challenges effectively.
The TechForGood India Conclave witnessed the participation of over 80 notable speakers and delegates, including representatives from Accenture India, Ministry of Home Affairs, ONDC, NITI Aayog, SAP Labs India, Avaana Climate and Sustainability Fund, DXC Technology, The Better India, and more. The diverse stakeholders shared their perspectives, stimulated collaboration, and fostered innovation towards achieving the 2030 agenda for Sustainable Development.
The TechForGood India Conclave 2024 serves as an open forum for dialogue, learning, and action on shared goals. The event aims to create a larger impact, ensure knowledge building, and foster collaboration in order to address critical issues with technology as an enabler.
In conclusion, the TechForGood India Conclave 2024, organized by Nasscom Foundation, has provided a platform for diverse stakeholders to collaborate and accelerate India’s progress towards the SDGs. The unveiling of the study on social commerce and the collaboration with Bhashini to promote digital literacy and inclusion are significant steps towards empowering rural women entrepreneurs and bridging the digital divide in India.
