Gujarat is set to enhance digital connectivity in rural areas through the Amended BharatNet Project. This initiative will provide high-speed internet to all villages in the state. The project aims to connect 14,287 gram panchayats and 3,895 villages with modern digital infrastructure. This agreement was signed in Gandhinagar by officials from the Gujarat government, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), and Gujarat Fibre Grid Network Limited (GFGNL). The signing took place in the presence of key figures such as Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi and Secretary of Telecom Neeraj Mittal.
The goal of this project is to ensure that even the most remote parts of Gujarat have stable internet access. With over 98% service uptime expected, residents will benefit from improved access to education, healthcare, and services. The Amended BharatNet plan is part of the Digital India initiative, aimed at bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state government is determined to provide a robust digital infrastructure. The project is expected to boost Gujarat’s economy by enabling digital services and e-governance. It will help farmers, students, and women access essential services more easily.
The agreement marks a significant milestone for Gujarat as it becomes the first state to implement the BharatNet project under a state-led model. The government has received a financial approval of ₹5,631 crores for the project, covering both capital and operational costs for ten years.
The Amended BharatNet will enhance Gujarat’s existing digital framework established in the previous phases. This earlier phase successfully connected over 8,000 gram panchayats in 22 districts, helping to establish seamless digital connectivity in rural areas.
Once implemented, the new project will provide high-speed internet to more than 14,654 gram panchayats and all non-gram panchayat villages in Gujarat. Local communities will have access to internet speeds of at least 25 Mbps through Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) connections. This will significantly improve the quality of life for residents.
The initiative will also empower government departments to engage directly with citizens. More than 321 services will be available through 14,000 e-Gram centres, allowing residents to access important information and services conveniently.
Additionally, the project will enhance the connectivity of over 7,500 schools and 765 health centres across the state. This will ensure that educational and health resources are more accessible to rural populations.
The Amended BharatNet Project is expected to create new job opportunities and contribute to economic growth by fostering digital businesses in rural areas. By improving connectivity, the project will support innovative solutions and services tailored to the needs of the local community.
In conclusion, the Amended BharatNet Project is a crucial step towards achieving digital equality in Gujarat. It promises to bring high-speed internet to every village, improving the lives of millions and supporting the state’s overall development. As the project begins, stakeholders are optimistic about the positive changes it will bring to rural communities across Gujarat.
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