Context: In a significant step towards strengthening digital infrastructure and accelerating broadband connectivity across rural Andhra Pradesh, Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) under Department of Telecommunications (DoT) signed an Agreement for implementation of the Amended BharatNet Programme (ABP) in the State under the State-led model at Sanchar Bhawan, New Delhi.
- The Agreement was signed between Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), DoT; Government of Andhra Pradesh; Andhra Pradesh BharatNet Infrastructure Limited (APBIL); Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Andhra Pradesh State FiberNet Limited (APSFL) for implementation of the Amended BharatNet Programme in the State of Andhra Pradesh.
- The signing of the Agreement marks an important milestone towards expeditious implementation of the Programme and reflects the shared commitment of the Central Government and the Government of Andhra Pradesh towards strengthening rural digital infrastructure, enhancing last-mile connectivity and promoting inclusive digital growth.
- The Union Cabinet had approved the Amended BharatNet Programme on 4 August 2023 with the objective of upgrading, consolidating and expanding the existing BharatNet network to ensure robust and future-ready broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats and villages on demand basis.
- Under the Amended BharatNet Programme in Andhra Pradesh, the project will be implemented through Andhra Pradesh BharatNet Infrastructure Limited (APBIL).
- The Programme will have a total scope of 13,426 Gram Panchayats, which includes upgradation of 1,692 Phase I Gram Panchayats from linear to ring topology to enhance network resilience, coverage of 11,254 Phase II Gram Panchayats, and inclusion of 480 newly created Gram Panchayats. In addition, 3,942 villages will be provided connectivity on a demand basis to strengthen last-mile connectivity.
- The Government of India has approved financial support of ₹2,432 crore for implementation of the Programme in Andhra Pradesh. The initiative is expected to facilitate more than five lakh rural home fibre connections with financial support from the Government of India and significantly enhance delivery of digital services including e-Governance, online education, telemedicine, digital payments and citizen-centric services across rural and remote areas of the State.
- The Agreement signed today is expected to accelerate execution of the Programme in Andhra Pradesh and further advance the vision of a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
About Digital Bharat Nidhi
- Digital Bharat Nidhi (erstwhile USOF) was established under the Indian Telegraph (Amendment) Act, 2003 w.e.f. 01.04.2002.
- As per ‘The Telecommunications Act, 2023’ the Universal Service Obligation Fund, has become the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN).
- The DBN has mandate to support universal service through promoting access and delivery of telecommunication service in underserved rural, remote and urban areas.
- It is an attached office of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications.
- In order to achieve objectives of DBN, it covers various schemes and projects including BharatNet, 4G Saturation Project, Provision of Mobile Service in uncovered areas of Aspirational Districts, Left Wing Extremist Areas, Himalayan and Border areas, Islands and North Eastern Areas