BharatNet: Revolutionizing Rural Connectivity in India

What is BharatNet?

BharatNet is a transformative initiative by the Indian government, aimed at providing last-mile optical fiber connectivity to homes in all 6.4 lakh villages across the country. As one of the largest rural telecom projects globally, it seeks to eliminate the digital divide by ensuring that even the most remote areas have access to the internet.

Funding for BharatNet

The Union Cabinet has allocated a substantial ₹1,39,579 crore to enhance the BharatNet project. This funding is essential for connecting the remaining villages that currently lack internet access.

Current Progress

As of now, approximately 1.94 lakh villages have been successfully connected under BharatNet. The government has set an ambitious goal to connect the remaining villages within the next two and a half years.

Implementation and Partnerships

The BharatNet project is implemented by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), a special purpose vehicle under the State-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL). BBNL collaborates with village-level entrepreneurs (VLEs) to facilitate last-mile connectivity to homes. This innovative approach has already been successfully piloted in four districts and has expanded to cover 60,000 villages across various states.

Data Consumption and Infrastructure

Under BharatNet, the average data consumption per household has reached 175 gigabytes per month, highlighting the increasing demand for internet services in rural regions. To support this, approximately 37 lakh route kilometers (rkm) of optical fiber cable have been laid, with BBNL responsible for 7.7 lakh rkm of the total.

Broadband Plans

BharatNet offers affordable broadband plans starting at ₹399 per month, with speeds beginning at 30 Mbps, making internet access more attainable for rural households.

Phased Rollout

Initially approved in October 2011, BharatNet is being rolled out in phases. Phase-II received approval in 2017, with a revenue-sharing model between BBNL and VLEs designed to ensure sustainable connectivity.

Bridging the Digital Divide

The convergence of BharatNet, the rollout of 5G technology, and the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) creates a robust opportunity to bridge the digital divide. By providing high-speed internet access, these initiatives can lead to greater digital inclusion, economic growth, and an enhanced quality of life for citizens across India.

Understanding the Digital Divide

• Definition: The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals who can effectively use digital technologies and those who cannot due to lack of access or skills.
• Rural-Urban Disparity: The divide is stark, particularly between urban and rural regions in terms of internet access and digital literacy.
• Impact on Development: Limited access hinders socio-economic growth by restricting opportunities in education, healthcare, and e-commerce.

The Role of BharatNet

• Extending Connectivity: BharatNet aims to connect over 600,000 villages with high-speed broadband, laying optical fiber cables to serve government institutions and individual homes.
• Public Wi-Fi Access: The initiative also establishes public Wi-Fi points, allowing communities to access the internet without personal devices.
• Digital Services Delivery: BharatNet enables various digital services, including e-governance, online education, and telemedicine.

Challenges and Impact

• Infrastructure Challenges: Implementing BharatNet faces difficulties such as challenging terrain and maintenance issues.
• Digital Literacy: Enhancing digital literacy among rural populations is crucial for maximizing the benefits of internet connectivity.
• Empowerment and Inclusion: BharatNet empowers rural communities by providing essential access to information and services, promoting financial inclusion and better livelihoods.
• Education and Healthcare: High-speed internet access enhances educational opportunities and telemedicine services, benefiting students and patients alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the main objective of BharatNet?
Answer: The primary objective of BharatNet is to provide last-mile optical fiber connectivity to homes in over 600,000 villages, ensuring widespread internet access across rural India.

Q2. How much funding has been allocated for BharatNet?
Answer: The Union Cabinet has approved ₹1,39,579 crore in funding to scale up the BharatNet project, aiming to connect the remaining villages.

Q3. Who is responsible for the implementation of BharatNet?
Answer: BharatNet is implemented by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), which operates under the Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL).

Q4. What partnerships are involved in BharatNet's implementation?
Answer: BharatNet partners with village-level entrepreneurs (VLEs) to facilitate last-mile connectivity, helping to expand internet access in rural areas.

Q5. What is the impact of BharatNet on rural education?
Answer: BharatNet significantly enhances access to online education resources, enabling students in rural areas to benefit from quality learning opportunities.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary aim of the BharatNet project?
A) To provide urban internet access
B) To connect rural villages with high-speed internet
C) To enhance mobile connectivity
D) To establish telecommunications in cities
Correct Answer: B