Centre and States Collaborate on India’s Digital Infrastructure
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the Ministry of Communications, recently held a significant Roundtable Conference with IT Ministers and Secretaries from various State Governments. This meeting took place during the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2026 and was presided over by Union Minister for Communications, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, along with Union Minister of State, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, and Secretary of the DoT, Shri Amit Agrawal.
This high-level dialogue served as an essential platform for fostering collaboration between the Centre, States, and Union Territories (UTs) on vital matters concerning telecommunications and digital services. Echoing the theme of IMC 2026, “Scale Without Boundaries,” discussions revolved around enhancing digital connectivity, expediting infrastructure deployment, and bolstering cooperation to drive India’s digital transformation, aiming towards a developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047.
Strengthening the Foundation of Digital Connectivity
Addressing attendees, Minister Scindia emphasized the importance of states in the development of digital infrastructure. He remarked that while telecommunications is a Union subject, states play a critical role in its realization on the ground. “To achieve Viksit Bharat by 2047, we must work collectively, accelerating Right of Way (RoW) approvals and ensuring connectivity reaches every citizen, particularly through initiatives like BharatNet and upcoming 4G saturation efforts,” he noted.
Focus on Regulatory Framework and Infrastructure Deployment
The conference aimed to streamline implementations of the Telecommunication (Right of Way) Rules, 2024, initiated by the DoT. With these rules set to be effective by January 2025, they establish a clear process for telecom infrastructure that includes adjusted RoW fees and strict timelines for processing applications—67 days for general RoW and just 7 days for special projects such as BharatNet.
So far, 34 out of 36 States/UTs have issued necessary guidelines to local authorities to comply with these regulations, contributing to the efficient rollout of critical telecom infrastructure. The Special Assistance for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme for 2026-27 has been allocated ₹4,000 crore, assisting states with the implementation of these reforms.
Advancements in Connectivity Projects
The meeting also assessed the progress of the Amended BharatNet Programme (ABP) and the 4G Saturation Project aimed at expanding connectivity into underserved regions. As of August 2026, over 55,780 kilometers of Optical Fiber Cable have been deployed, and 28,700 Gram Panchayats have been upgraded under the ABP.
Additionally, the government has taken initiatives under the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) to extend mobile connectivity in remote areas, having commissioned 25,367 mobile towers and reaching numerous villages that were previously without coverage.
Combatting Cyber Threats and Enhancing Services
The Roundtable highlighted the need for robust strategies to combat cybercrime, particularly through the Sanchar Saathi initiative. This program allows citizens to report fraudulent communications, track their mobile connections, and secure their devices. The Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP) was also introduced as a vital tool for enhancing coordination among various stakeholders in the telecommunication sector.
Another significant discussion point was the Samriddh Gram Phygital Services Initiative, which aims to deliver essential services through digital means in rural areas. This model, being piloted in several states, aims to bring services like telemedicine, digital education, and banking to rural communities, having recently won international recognition under the WSIS Prizes 2026.
In closing, the conference underscored a shared commitment between the Centre, States, and telecom industry to accelerate the deployment of digital infrastructure and expand citizen-centric digital services, emphasizing a collaborative push towards a connected India by 2047.
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