Digital
transformation is reshaping rural economies in India by promoting efficiency,
transparency, and sustainability. Emerging technologies such as digital
finance, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and mobile
connectivity are enabling rural communities to access clean energy solutions,
sustainable agriculture practices, and inclusive financial services. However,
adoption in rural areas remains limited due to infrastructural, digital
literacy, and trust-related challenges. This study investigates how digital
transformation can support climate change mitigation in rural India by
enhancing resource efficiency, enabling green entrepreneurship, and promoting
behavioral change. Using a mixed-method approach combining secondary data from
NITI Aayog, RBI, NPCI, and the World Bank with primary data from a rural survey
of 150 respondents the study identifies barriers such as low connectivity,
limited awareness, and socio-cultural resistance. Despite these challenges,
initiatives like Digital India, UPI, and Aadhaar-enabled systems have
strengthened the foundation for climate-smart digital ecosystems. The paper concludes
with policy recommendations for integrating digital inclusion and environmental
sustainability in rural development strategies.
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