World Development Information Day on October 24 highlights digital technology's role and the digital divide

World Development Information Day is observed around the world every year on October 24. In today's digital age, technology and information are no longer limited to delivering news. They have become the biggest force behind the world's economic and social development. The right information at the right time greatly helps in solving problems and easing the path of development.

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) officially announced the day in 1972. The aim was to draw the world's attention to the development problems faced by different countries and to get countries to work together to resolve them. The United Nations believes that if young people and ordinary citizens get the right information, they can play a more active role in social and political development.

Information technology is expanding at a speed never seen before. Progress in the internet, data science, artificial intelligence and telecom has made the world like a small village. The use of digital tools has grown in education, health, farming and trade. This has made it possible to take government schemes and financial services to people living in remote areas.

But there is another side to this. As digital technology spreads, the problem of the "digital divide" is becoming prominent. There is still a big difference in the availability of technology between developed and developing countries. The day is a reminder that this inequality must be removed so that the benefits of technology reach the last section of society.

On this day, many educational institutions, non-governmental organisations and government departments around the world hold workshops, discussion sessions and seminars. These programmes stress raising digital literacy, informing people about cyber security and using technology properly for sustainable development. Information is not only a source of knowledge but also an effective tool for change.

Finally, sorting out accurate information amid today's flood of information is a big challenge for citizens. The spread of fake news and misinformation can become an obstacle to development. On World Development Information Day, it is therefore important for everyone to check the truth of any information and use it for the good of society.