DIGITAL EMPOWERMENT AT GRASSROOT LEVEL: A STUDY OF ASHA AND ANGANWADI WORKERS

Digital empowerment is increasingly important for improving rural livelihoods and Background: Digital empowerment is increasingly recognized as a catalyst for improving rural livelihoods and strengthening welfare delivery in India. Anganwadi centres and Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) act as vital links between government digital initiatives and rural communities; understanding their digital access and practices is crucial for inclusive transformation. Objectives: This study aims to (i) analyze access to and use of digital applications by Anganwadi and ASHA workers, (ii) understand their role in localized digital empowerment, and (iii) explore the impact of digital services on the community. Methods: Employing a descriptive research design, the study used purposive sampling to select 100 respondents. Data were gathered via a structured interview schedule supplemented by secondary sources. Results were analyzed using simple statistical percentage analysis. Results: The analysis reveals growing but uneven adoption of digital applications among frontline workers. While ASHA and Anganwadi workers facilitate community access to digital services and act as local change agents, barriers such as limited device availability, unreliable connectivity, and insufficient institutional support constrain their effectiveness. Digital services have produced measurable benefits in service delivery and information access, though uptake among beneficiaries remains uneven due to low digital literacy. Conclusion: Frontline health and childcare workers play a critical role in localized digital empowerment and in mediating the community impact of digital services. Strengthening device access, connectivity, training, and targeted digital literacy programs for beneficiaries will enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of rural digital interventions.