This study explores the relationship between digital literacy and the socio-economic empowerment of the Mogaveera fisherwomen in Udupi, in the southwestern Indian state(?) of Karnataka. They are marginalized in India’s growing digital landscape, despite their vital role in the fishing economy and cultural preservation, and this in turn exacerbates existing gender inequalities. Factors like ageism and hierarchical roles in the community will also be shown to affect technology usage. Among the key challenges are low digital literacy, financial constraints, restrictive social norms, and limited access to technology, which hinder their participation in digital transformation efforts. Patriarchal and communal structures further limit their ability to adopt technology and access critical resources. This research highlights the need for targeted interventions, such as enhancing digital literacy, fostering inclusive digital ecosystems, and strengthening cooperative societies. This paper will further show that these measures can unlock economic opportunities, enhance agency, and promote autonomy within their community. Only by addressing these unique socio-cultural dynamics amongst the Mogaveeras can digital literacy serve as a transformative tool for sustainable development and gender equity among Udupi’s fisherwomen.

Authors:
Samriddhi Nandi, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India
Padmakumar K, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India

About the Presenter(s)
Ms. Samriddhi Nandi is currently a Dr. TMA Pai Research Scholar at Manipal Institute of Communication, MAHE, Manipal. Her work focuses on gender-based research, particularly in India’s south-western coastal region and its various diverse communities.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/samriddhi-n-500751154/

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Samriddhi-Nandi

Additional website of interest
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0726-1460

See this presentation on the full schedule – Friday Schedule

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