Digital Bharat Nidhi signs Amended BharatNet Program agreement with Chhattisgarh for Rs 3,942 crore

Key facts

• Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) signed an agreement for implementation of the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) in Chhattisgarh under the state-led model.
• The agreement was signed between DBN, Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of Chhattisgarh, Chhattisgarh State BharatNet Infrastructure Limited (CSBIL), BSNL, and Chhattisgarh Infotech Promotion Society (CHiPS).
• The program aims to upgrade, consolidate, and expand the existing BharatNet network to provide broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats and villages on demand.
• In Chhattisgarh, the project will be implemented through CSBIL with a total scope of 11,682 Gram Panchayats, including upgradation of 4,048 Phase I GPs, coverage of 5,964 Phase II GPs, and inclusion of 1,670 newly created GPs.
• Additionally, 8,328 villages will be provided connectivity on demand to strengthen last-mile connectivity.
• The Government of India approved financial support of Rs 3,942 crore for implementation of the program in Chhattisgarh.
• The initiative is expected to facilitate more than three lakh rural home fibre connections with financial support from the Government of India.
• It will enhance delivery of digital services including e-Governance, online education, telemedicine, and digital payments across rural and remote areas.