BharatNet Achieves Broadband Connection for Over 214,000 Gram Panchayats: Government Announcement
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New Delhi, Dec 21 (NationPress) BharatNet, recognized as the largest rural broadband connectivity initiative globally, has successfully established connections for more than 214,283 gram panchayats through the use of optical fibre, radio, and satellite technologies, according to a government statement released on Saturday.
Initiated in October 2011, this significant project is dedicated to delivering affordable high-speed internet access to every gram panchayat across the nation.
The program aims to empower rural India, promote inclusive growth, and close the divide between urban and rural areas. The Ministry of Communications emphasized that BharatNet is not just an infrastructure project; it is the critical framework for India's progression toward a fully digital society.
The ministry reported that a total of 692,299 km of Optical Fibre cable (OFC) has been installed. Furthermore, it provides economical internet services in rural regions starting as low as Rs 99/month. The projected monthly internet data consumption stands at 137,967 TB.
Additionally, 1,160,367 Fibre-To-The-Home (FTTH) connections have been established, along with 104,574 Wi-Fi hotspots to guarantee last-mile connectivity up to December 20.
BharatNet operates as the largest rural broadband connectivity program worldwide, relying on optical fiber cables, satellite links for distant areas, and wireless technologies to enhance last-mile connectivity.
The project is being executed in three phases. The first phase, completed in December 2017, concentrated on laying optical fiber cables to connect 100,000 gram panchayats, utilizing existing infrastructure.
The second phase extended coverage to include an additional 150,000 gram panchayats using optical fiber, radio, and satellite technologies, involving collaborative efforts with state governments and private partners.
The ongoing third phase focuses on future-proofing the network by incorporating 5G technologies, enhancing bandwidth, and ensuring reliable last-mile connectivity. The Ministry stated that this phase aims to enhance accessibility and dependability.
The Ministry highlighted that “BharatNet has significantly transformed rural India, fostering socio-economic growth in various aspects such as digital inclusion, economic opportunities, education, healthcare, and empowering local governance.”
