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India’s digital journey has witnessed a monumental leap with two groundbreaking projects, namely BharatNet and the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fibre Connection (KLI-SOFC). These initiatives, spearheaded by the government, underscore a deep commitment to bridge the digital divide and empower citizens with high-speed connectivity, especially in rural and remote regions.
BharatNet: A Rural Revolution
BharatNet, hailed as one of the world’s largest rural telecom projects, aims to provide non-discriminatory access to broadband connectivity for approximately 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats across the country. Launched in phases, the project enables access providers like mobile operators, ISPs, cable TV operators, and content providers to offer diverse services, including e-health, e-education, and e-governance in rural India.
Phased Implementation and Connectivity Milestones
Commencing with the creation of the National Optical Fibre Network (NOFN), later rebranded as BharatNet, Phase-I focused on providing broadband connectivity at the Gram Panchayat level. Completed in December 2017, it covered over 1 lakh Gram Panchayats and was later expanded to 1.25 lakh Gram Panchayats.
Phase-II adopted a modified strategy in 2017, integrating various implementation models, including State-led, CPSU-led, Private-led, and Satellite components. States like Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, and others are actively progressing under this phase.
Utilization Models
BharatNet’s network is utilized through leasing bandwidth and dark fibre, offering Wi-Fi for last-mile connectivity (LMC) in public places and Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) connections.
Current Status of BharatNet
As of January 22, 2024, BharatNet has connected 210,190 Gram Panchayats, laying an impressive 678,148 km of Optical Fibre Cable (OFC). Additionally, 847,465 FTTH connections and 104,675 Wi-Fi hotspots ensure last-mile connectivity.
Funding and Disbursement
The total funding for BharatNet (Phase-I and Phase-II) approved by the Cabinet stands at Rs 42,068 crores (excluding GST, Octroi, and local taxes). As of December 31, 2023, Rs. 39,825 crore has been disbursed under the BharatNet project.
State/UT-wise Impact of BharatNet
A transformative impact is witnessed across states and union territories, with Gram Panchayats made service-ready under BharatNet. States like Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana showcase significant strides in enabling high-speed broadband connectivity.
Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fibre Connection (KLI-SOFC): A Gateway to Progress
In a historic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the KLI-SOFC project on January 3, 2024, in Kavaratti, Lakshadweep. This initiative, part of a developmental plan exceeding Rs 1,150 crore, promises to revolutionize communication infrastructure in the Lakshadweep islands.
Key Objectives and Transformative Impact
The KLI-SOFC project brings about an Internet revolution in Lakshadweep, promising 100 times faster internet speeds. This marks a significant paradigm shift in communication infrastructure, enhancing connectivity and digital accessibility for the people of Lakshadweep.
Moreover, the dedicated submarine Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) deployed in the project opens up avenues for a multitude of diverse applications. Beyond simply providing faster internet services, the OFC facilitates advancements in various sectors, including telemedicine, e-governance, educational initiatives, digital banking, digital currency usage, and digital literacy. This comprehensive approach ensures that the benefits of enhanced connectivity are felt across different aspects of life, contributing to the overall socio-economic development of Lakshadweep.
In addition to the technological advancements, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the logistics hub potential of Lakshadweep through this project. This strategic vision looks towards strengthening facilities such as government services, medical treatment, education, and digital banking. The island region is positioned to evolve into a logistical centre, serving as a hub for various essential services. This not only enhances the quality of life for the residents but also contributes to the overall development and sustainability of Lakshadweep in the digital era.
Project Funding and Execution
The project, funded by the Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF) under the Department of Telecommunications, signifies the commitment to uplifting remote regions through digital connectivity. Executed by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and M/s NEC Corporation India Pvt Ltd, the project involved critical activities like marine route survey, submarine cable laying, and installation of end terminals.
Digital Empowerment Beyond Connectivity
These projects extend beyond providing mere connectivity. BharatNet, through its vast reach, fosters the vision of ‘Digital India’ and ‘National Broadband Mission,’ catalysing e-governance, tourism, education, health, commerce, and industries. Similarly, the KLI-SOFC project propels Lakshadweep into a digital era, unlocking socio-economic development opportunities and aligning with the broader vision for India’s islands.
Lakshadweep’s Integration into BharatNet
Nine Gram Panchayats in Lakshadweep now enjoy the benefits of high-speed connectivity, empowering the islanders with essential tools for education, healthcare, e-governance, and more. Lakshadweep is seamlessly integrated into BharatNet, gaining connectivity through this comprehensive rural telecom initiative. This integration reinforces the inclusive nature of BharatNet, ensuring that even the distant island regions are not left behind in the digital age. The advantage for Lakshadweep is evident, serving as a testament, despite being geographically distant, Lakshadweep stands as an integral part of BharatNet’s success story, exemplifying the dedication to leaving no corner untouched and ensuring that every citizen, regardless of location, becomes part of India’s digital revolution.
Towards a Digitally Empowered India
As these transformative projects continue to unfold, they represent the government’s unwavering commitment to creating a digitally empowered India. The combination of BharatNet’s rural revolution and KLI-SOFC’s island connectivity signifies a collective step towards inclusive development, where technology becomes a bridge connecting the aspirations of every citizen, from the mainland to the islands.
With a focus on empowering the remotest corners of the nation, these projects exemplify India’s resolve to build a Vikshit Bharat, ensuring that technology acts as a catalyst for progress and prosperity across diverse landscapes. As the digital horizon expands, BharatNet and KLI-SOFC stand as beacons of a connected, empowered, and inclusive India, where no citizen is left behind in the transformative wave of digital reach.
Author : Pranita Vishwakarma
Author Description : Pranita Vishwakarma, a PhD Scholar at the Centre for East Asian Studies at the Jawaharlal Nehru University, specializes in geopolitics and area studies, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and India-Japan relations. Her diverse interests span maritime security, tech policy, sustainability, and strategic studies, reflecting a holistic understanding of security in international affairs. Currently, as a research intern at Rightstep Foundation, Pranita leverages her analytical acumen to delve into policy matters, conducting research and offering strategic policy recommendations to clients.
Disclaimer : The views, thoughts, or opinions expressed in this blogs belong solely to the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views of author’s employer, organisation, committee or any other group or individual.
