BharatNet Project: Advancing Rural Digital Connectivity in India
Why in News?
- The Union Cabinet has approved a revised strategy for the BharatNet Project to accelerate broadband connectivity in rural India. The new model involves a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode for faster and more efficient implementation.
Important Key Points:
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About BharatNet:
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BharatNet is the world’s largest rural broadband connectivity project, launched in 2011 as the National Optical Fibre Network (NOFN).
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It aims to provide broadband services to all Gram Panchayats (approx. 2.5 lakh) in India.
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Objective:
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To provide affordable and high-speed broadband services to rural citizens and institutions through optical fibre infrastructure.
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Implementation Strategy (Revised):
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The project will now be implemented via the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in 16 states.
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A Viability Gap Funding (VGF) of up to ₹19,041 crore will be provided to support the private partner.
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Scope Expansion:
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The revised strategy includes the last-mile connectivity to villages, not just Gram Panchayats.
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This will ensure internet availability directly to homes, schools, health centres, and government offices in villages.
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Expected Outcomes:
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Boosts digital inclusion, e-governance, education, telemedicine, and rural entrepreneurship.
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Facilitates the Digital India mission and bridges the urban-rural digital divide.
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Nodal Agency:
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The project is being implemented by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), a special purpose vehicle under the Department of Telecommunications.
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