Chhattisgarh Boosts Broadband Connectivity with Amended BharatNet Program
In a pivotal move aimed at bolstering digital infrastructure in rural Chhattisgarh, the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) has signed a critical agreement for the implementation of the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP). This significant event took place at Sanchar Bhawan in New Delhi and brings together key stakeholders from the government and telecommunications sector.
The agreement was established between several parties, including the Digital Bharat Nidhi under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), the Government of Chhattisgarh, Chhattisgarh State BharatNet Infrastructure Limited (CSBIL), Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), and the Chhattisgarh Infotech Promotion Society (CHiPS). This collaboration marks a substantial commitment to improve broadband access and enhance digital services across the state.
Strengthening Rural Connectivity
The signing ceremony featured esteemed officials such as Shri Shyamal Misra, Administrator of DBN, as well as representatives from the Government of Chhattisgarh, including Shri Ankit Anand, Secretary of the Department of Electronics & IT. This agreement represents a crucial milestone in implementing the ABP, highlighting the shared dedication of both the Central and State Governments toward enhancing rural digital infrastructure and inclusive digital growth.
Initially approved by the Union Cabinet on August 4, 2023, the Amended BharatNet Program aims to upgrade and expand the existing BharatNet network, ensuring robust broadband connectivity is accessible to all Gram Panchayats in Chhattisgarh. This initiative is set to significantly impact over 11,682 Gram Panchayats, including the upgrade of 4,048 Phase I Gram Panchayats to a more resilient ring topology, coverage for 5,964 Phase II Gram Panchayats, and the inclusion of 1,670 newly created Gram Panchayats.
Financial Support and Future Prospects
The Government of India has committed an impressive financial support of ₹3,942 crores for this ambitious initiative. The project is expected to provide connectivity for more than 300,000 rural home fibre connections and enhance access to essential digital services such as e-governance, online education, telemedicine, and digital payments, particularly in remote areas of the state.
With this agreement signed, the execution of the program is anticipated to accelerate, further propelling Chhattisgarh towards a digitally empowered future. The collaboration embodies a concerted effort to create a knowledge economy where all citizens have equitable access to digital opportunities.
About Digital Bharat Nidhi
Digital Bharat Nidhi, formerly known as the Universal Service Obligation Fund, was formed in accordance with the Indian Telegraph (Amendment) Act of 2003. This unit operates under the Department of Telecommunications and aims to foster access to telecommunication services in underserved areas. Its existing projects include BharatNet, 4G Saturation Projects, and other initiatives designed to extend mobile services to remote districts and sensitive regions.
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