Digital India initiatives are enhancing digital literacy in rural and tribal areas through impactful programs like PMGDISHA, the National Knowledge Network (NKN), and BHASHINI.
The government is implementing several initiatives under the Digital Bharat Nidhi (formerly known as USOF) to enhance internet connectivity. Among the projects assigned to BSNL are: (i) the 4G Saturation Project, which aims to provide 4G mobile services to villages that currently lack coverage across the country, and (ii) the Border Out Posts (BoP)/Border Intelligence Posts (BIP) Project, which focuses on delivering 4G-based mobile services to BoPs and BIPs.
Additionally, the BharatNet project (previously known as the National Optical Fiber Network), funded by Digital Bharat Nidhi (formerly USOF), is being rolled out in phases to provide broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats across the country. BharatNet Phase-II is being implemented under the State Led Model in eight states: Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana.
DBN is funding the linear architecture using GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network) technology. However, some states, including Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh, have adopted an enhanced ring architecture with IP-MPLS (Internet Protocol Multi-Protocol Label Switching) technology, with additional support from their respective state governments.
Furthermore, the amended BharatNet program was approved by the Union Cabinet on 04.08.2023 with an allocation of Rs. 1.39 Lakh Crores to extend fiber connectivity to all Gram Panchayats and villages on a demand basis. The program also includes provisions for 1.5 crore high-speed FTTH broadband connections in rural areas. BSNL has been designated as the Project Management Agency for this initiative. As of 04.11.2024, a total of 11,74,536 broadband FTTH connections have been provided through the BharatNet network in rural areas.
