A major milestone in India’s digital revolution unfolded in New Delhi as Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia unveiled plans to fortify telecom infrastructure across Andhra Pradesh’s villages under the overhauled BharatNet scheme. Valued at approximately Rs 1.39 lakh crore, this public initiative targets optical fiber and broadband connectivity to all villages nationwide.
The event saw the inking of a key MoC among Digital Bharat Nidhi, the telecom department, and Andhra Pradesh authorities, streamlining the Revised BharatNet Program’s deployment.
‘Our mission is to make technology accessible to every Indian,’ Scindia declared, underscoring how tech bridges personal aspirations to worldwide opportunities.
Minister of State Dr. Pemmasani Chandrasekhar noted that this state-driven model guarantees fast-track implementation with built-in accountability and funding. It promises enhanced last-mile connectivity, broader 4G coverage, and cost-effective digital solutions for villagers.
This partnership paves the way for extensive program growth. Andhra Pradesh has pledged seamless support in securing rights-of-way, infrastructure, and coordination.
DBN will shoulder the bulk of financing, supplemented by state inputs. The network will drive socio-economic benefits through strategic state utilization.
With Rs 2,432 crore sanctioned by the Centre, the project anticipates fiber links for 500,000+ rural homes. Benefits include stronger digital governance, efficient service delivery, and boosts to e-learning, payments, governance, and healthcare in far-flung regions.