BharatNet, has helped connect more than 2.14 lakh gram panchayats by utilising optical fibre, radio, and satellite technologies.
Launched in 2011 under the Ministry of Communications, BharatNet aims to provide affordable high-speed internet to every Gram Panchayat (GP) and is the world’s largest rural broadband initiative.
Amended BharatNet 2023
The 2023 Amended BharatNet Program (ABP), with a budget of ₹1,39,579 crores, focuses on:
- Optical fiber connectivity for 2.64 lakh GPs and 3.8 lakh non-GP villages on demand.
- 10-year maintenance and uptime monitoring via Centralized Network Operating Centre (CNOC).
- Power backup and Remote Fibre Monitoring System (RFMS) at block levels.
Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN)
DBN replaces the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) to enhance telecom services across India.
Phased Implementation
- Phase I: Connected 1 lakh GPs using existing optical fiber infrastructure.
- Phase II: Added 1.5 lakh GPs using fiber, radio, and satellite.
- Phase III: Ongoing, integrating 5G, enhancing bandwidth, and improving last-mile connectivity.
Impact
- Digital Inclusion: Access to e-governance, education, and healthcare in rural areas.
- Economic Opportunities: Facilitates digital commerce, financial services, and entrepreneurship.
- Improved Governance: Strengthens transparency and citizen engagement in Gram Panchayats.
BharatNet is revolutionizing rural India by enabling digital empowerment and bridging the urban-rural divide, ensuring inclusive growth and connectivity for all.
