To improve the internet connectivity, Government is implementing various projects under Digital Bharat Nidhi (erstwhile USOF). Such projects awarded to BSNL include (i) 4G Saturation project to provide 4G mobile services in uncovered villages across the country, (ii) Border Out Posts (BoP)/Border Intelligence Posts (BIP) project for the provision of 4G based mobile services at BoP/BIP’s. The details of the Projects are available at the website: www.usof.gov.in.

Further, BharatNet project (earlier known as National Optical Fiber Network) being funded by Digital Bharat Nidhi (erstwhile USOF) is being implemented in a phased manner to provide broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats across the country. BharatNet Phase-II in eight States (Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu and Telangana) is being implemented under State Led Model. DBN is funding for the linear architecture with GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network) technology, however, some States (Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Chhattisgarh) have implemented enhanced ring architecture with IP-MPLS (Internet Protocol Multi-Protocol Label Switching) technology with the contribution from State Government.

Further, Amended Bharatnet program has been approved by the Union Cabinet on 04.08.2023 with an outlay of Rs. 1.39 Lakh Crores to extend fiber to all Gram Panchayats and villages on demand basis, including provisions for 1.5 Crores high speed FTTH broadband connections in rural areas. BSNL is the Project Management Agency for this scheme. As on 04.11.2024, total 11,74,536 broadband FTTH connections have been provided on BharatNet network in rural areas.

The schemes/projects being implemented under Digital India initiatives to improve the digital literacy in rural and tribal areas includes Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyaan (PMGDISHA), National Knowledge Network (NKN) and BHASHINI etc.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, Dr.Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

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SB/ARJ

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