Introduction

In this chapter, the theme and approach of this book is delineated. It begins by tracing the history of the phrase ‘Digital India’ and its association with the socio-economic upliftment of the poor. A range of terms that are used to refer to the condition of being poor and their ideological connotations are then explored. This book is concerned with the currently dominant liberal order and reference to the poor here is within a liberal register. The liberal register is contrasted with the socialist register. The plan of the book is outlined in the final section.