The BharatNet Project, introduced by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in 2011, aims to extend fiber internet connectivity to over 2.5 lakh gram panchayats. The primary objective is to provide non-discriminatory broadband access to consumers in rural areas where private companies hesitate to invest due to lower returns. To facilitate the smooth execution of the BharatNet project, the DoT established the Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL). Recently, BBNL was merged with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) to enhance operational efficiency.
Funding Mechanism:
The funds for the BharatNet project are sourced from the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF). This fund, constituted by the government, collects contributions from telecom companies as part of their statutory dues, included in the license fees paid to the government.
Latest Update of BharatNet Project:
As of now, 2,07,592 gram panchayats are service-ready under the BharatNet Project, with 6,68,491 km of optical fiber deployed. Over 7,66,619 Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) connections have been established across India. The recent statistics, disclosed by USOF, highlight the project’s progress in providing last-mile connectivity, aligning with the Digital India vision and fostering the growth of the digital economy.
Merger Impact and Strategic Moves:
The strategic merger of BBNL with BSNL enables the latter to leverage the extensive fiber network laid by BBNL. This empowers BSNL to extend broadband services to more customers in rural areas. Additionally, BBNL gains from BSNL’s expertise in fiber deployment and operational management, creating a synergistic alliance to accelerate the BharatNet initiative.
