In the remote village of Kibber, nestled in the Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, life moves at a different pace. While the rest of the world is connected through the internet, this picturesque village remains untouched by digital connectivity. At an altitude of over 14,000 feet, Kibber is known for its natural beauty and peaceful way of life, attracting tourists from far and wide.
However, the lack of internet access poses significant challenges for the village’s inhabitants, especially the younger generation. Students must climb treacherous mountains every day just to catch a faint signal to attend online classes or fill out forms. The absence of digital connectivity keeps them disconnected from the rapidly advancing world.
According to a 2023 report by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), around 2.6 billion people worldwide — approximately one-third of the global population — are still offline. These people often live in remote villages located in mountains, deserts, or dense forests, where internet connectivity is unavailable. In Kibber, smartphones are rarely seen, and the idea of connecting to the digital world is still very new to the residents.
Students climb mountains for connectivity
Online education, digital payments, and access to information about government schemes remain distant dreams. The village, situated in India’s Spiti Valley, may appear beautiful, but it remains digitally isolated.
In today’s age, when everything has gone online, the students and residents face tremendous difficulties. Away from the glitz of social media, Kibber is a stark reminder of the digital divide that still exists in many parts of the world. While talks of 4G and 5G internet connectivity dominate national headlines, villages like Kibber grapple with the fundamental challenge of accessing the internet.
The lack of internet connectivity not only affects education but also hampers access to government schemes and the ability to apply for online scholarships. For the youth, especially, not having internet connectivity translates to missed opportunities and hardships. Despite these challenges, the villagers of Kibber have adapted to a life of simplicity and tranquility.
While the rest of the country races ahead in the digital age, Kibber offers a glimpse into a world where life moves at a slower pace, reminding us of the importance of human connection beyond the digital realm.
Kirstie a technology news reporter at DevX. She reports on emerging technologies and startups waiting to skyrocket.
