Connecting the Disconnected: The Role of ICT in Women’s Livelihood Restoration in the Resettlement Site Kannagi Nagar in Chennai, India

Abstract

In Chennai, Development-Induced Displacement and Resettlement (DIDR) pushes the urban poor to resettlement sites in the outskirts of the city. One of those sites is Kannagi Nagar, located 15 km from the city centre, in which women suffer from more significant livelihood deprivation. As there is evidence of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) being useful in development, this study aims to explain the role of ICT in the livelihood restoration and enhancement of the social and financial capital for women in Kannagi Nagar. Through a case study with a blend of quantitative and qualitative techniques, the research incorporated a closed-ended questionnaire survey and interviews. Among the women, ICT use is prevalent, however, they have not fully optimized the potentials of ICT for livelihood restoration. The use is still limited to the purpose of maintaining the contacts they already have. However, some women have been able to use ICT, especially through their phones, for the restoration and enhancement of their social and financial capital. Nonetheless, to harness the full potential of ICT and strengthen women’s agency, access to ICT should be improved.

A Study on Mobile Phone Technology Adoption & Usage Among Urban Poor Women in Resettlement Sites

“…This has resulted in their increased participation within organizations, augmented support from neighbors and the community at large, improved skill sets, superior employment opportunities and an escalation in income. However, it was observed that women generally have not yet harnessed the full potential of their mobile phones (Almira & Van Eerd, 2021).…”

Gendered analysis of development induced displacement in the Global South: A systematic review

“…Women must turn to the informal economy as a means of survival. More importantly, a different study done in India (Almira & van Eerd, 2021) provides evidence of how urban slum redevelopment initiatives put women at risk for vulnerability and poverty.…”