Boosting Broadband: Jharkhand Signs Landmark Agreement with DoT
In a pivotal move aimed at enhancing digital infrastructure and broadband connectivity in rural Jharkhand, the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) inked a significant agreement today at Sanchar Bhawan, New Delhi. This agreement pertains to the implementation of the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) and embraces a state-led model to bolster internet accessibility throughout the region.
The signing ceremony featured prominent representatives, including Shri Shyamal Misra, Administrator of Digital Bharat Nidhi, and Shri Papa Sudhakara Rao, Director of Enterprise Business at Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL). The key documents were signed by Shri Dinesh Kumar Garg, Deputy Director General of DoT, and Mrs. Pooja Singhal, Secretary of the Department of IT & e-Gov for the Government of Jharkhand.
A Unified Approach for Rural Connectivity
This agreement marks a crucial milestone in the speedy execution of the Amended BharatNet Program, demonstrating the cooperative spirit of both the Central Government and the Jharkhand State Government. The primary objective is to enhance last-mile connectivity and foster inclusive digital growth.
The Union Cabinet gave a nod to the Amended BharatNet Program on August 4, 2023, aimed at improving and expanding the existing BharatNet network. The goal is to provide robust broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats and villages based on demand.
Expanding Reach Across Jharkhand
Under the ABP in Jharkhand, the project will be spearheaded by the newly established Jharkhand Digital Infrastructure Corporation Limited (JDICL). This program will cover 4,395 Gram Panchayats, with significant upgrades to 4,387 of them from a linear to a ring topology, which will enhance network resilience. Moreover, eight newly created Gram Panchayats will also be included. Additionally, 26,777 villages will gain connectivity on a demand basis, significantly improving the essential last-mile connections.
The Government of India has allocated a substantial ₹1,684 crore to fund this initiative in Jharkhand. The project is expected to facilitate over 400,000 rural fiber connections, with financial support from the government. This advancement aims to increase access to digital services such as e-Governance, telemedicine, online education, digital payments, and more across rural and isolated areas of the state.
A Vision for a Digitally Empowered Society
The recently signed agreement is anticipated to fast-track the implementation of the ABP, propelling Jharkhand closer to a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. This initiative represents not just a leap forward in technology but also a commitment to ensuring that every citizen has access to essential digital services.
About Digital Bharat Nidhi
Digital Bharat Nidhi, previously known as the Universal Service Obligation Fund, was established under the Indian Telegraph (Amendment) Act of 2003. As per the Telecommunications Act of 2023, the fund has been rebranded to better reflect its commitment to promoting telecommunication access in underserved rural, remote, and urban areas.
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