The Changing Contours of Online Learning in India: A Critical Study

Online learning is the latest addition in the realm of education in the world including India. Though this initiative was continuing for a long time in the past, the COVID-19 pandemic starting from the year 2020 gave an unprecedented fillip to this phenomenon. The increased availability of the computers, android mobile phones, and the expanding Internet network in the far-flung areas of the country made it possible for the students to study at home in e-learning mode. This method proved to be a boon to the teaching and student community both as the schools were closed due to the pandemic. There appeared several means and methods to spread education and learning in virtual mode. However, in the Indian context it has not been an easy task. There is a clear digital divide between the rural and urban populace. Moreover, the expansion of the Internet is not complete yet. There are many more things to consider. This paper deals with the process and growth of e-learning in India and suggests solutions to enhance the scope of virtual education in the Indian context.