BharatNet: Bridging the Digital Divide

Introduction to BharatNet

In today's digital era, internet connectivity has become the cornerstone of economic growth, education, healthcare, and governance. Rural India, however, has faced significant challenges due to the digital divide. To address this, the Government of India launched BharatNet in October 2011, an ambitious initiative aimed at providing affordable high-speed internet access to every gram panchayat in the country.

Under the Ministry of Communications, BharatNet seeks to empower rural India, foster inclusive development, and bridge the gap between urban and rural communities. More than just an infrastructure project, BharatNet serves as the backbone of India's journey toward becoming a digital nation.

In August 2023, the government approved the Revised BharatNet Programme (ABP) to extend optical fiber connectivity to 2.64 lakh gram panchayats using ring topology and to provide connectivity to an additional 3.8 lakh non-gram panchayat villages based on demand.

Key Features of the Revised BharatNet Programme (ABP)

• Ring Topology: Optical fiber connectivity from blocks to gram panchayats.
• IP-MPLS Network: Routers at block and gram panchayat levels.
• Demand-based Expansion: Optical fiber connectivity for non-gram panchayat villages.
• Long-term Operations: Maintenance and operations for 10 years, including centralized monitoring through a Network Operating Center (CNOC).
• Power Backup and Monitoring: Adequate power backup and remote fiber monitoring systems at block levels.

Digital India Fund: Financing BharatNet

The Digital India Fund (DBN), established as a replacement for the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), is the primary funding source for BharatNet. Its objectives include:

• Providing affordable, high-quality digital services in rural and remote areas.
• Promoting economic growth through enhanced digital connectivity.
• Bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal access to information and services.

Implementation of BharatNet

BharatNet is the world's largest rural broadband connectivity program, executed by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL) through a phased approach:

1. Phase I (Completed in December 2017): Connecting 1 lakh gram panchayats using existing infrastructure and laying optical fiber cables.
2. Phase II: Extending coverage to an additional 1.5 lakh gram panchayats using optical fiber, radio, and satellite technologies.
3. Phase III: Future-proofing the network with 5G integration, enhanced bandwidth capacity, and robust last-mile connectivity.

Impact of BharatNet

1. Digital Inclusion: Enabled high-speed internet access in remote villages, facilitating e-governance, online education, and telemedicine services.
2. Economic Opportunities: Empowered rural communities to participate in digital commerce, access financial services, and explore entrepreneurial ventures.
3. Education and Healthcare: Bridged resource gaps by enabling digital classrooms and telehealth services, providing quality education and medical expertise to rural areas.
4. Strengthening Local Governance: Equipped gram panchayats to implement e-governance initiatives, improving transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement.

Key Achievements

• 4G and 5G Rollout: By October 2024, 4G Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) numbered 24,96,644, while 5G BTS installations reached 4,62,084.
• Reduced Data Costs: Data prices dropped significantly from ₹269/GB in 2014 to ₹9.08/GB.
• Improved Broadband Speed: Median mobile broadband speed increased from 1.30 Mbps (2014) to 95.67 Mbps.
• Expanded Digital Reach: 6,15,836 out of 6,44,131 villages now have 4G mobile connectivity.

Conclusion

BharatNet promises to transform rural India into a digitally empowered society. By addressing challenges and maintaining its momentum, this initiative paves the way for a more inclusive and connected future. BharatNet is more than just an infrastructure project—it is a lifeline for millions of rural Indians aspiring to connect with opportunities beyond their immediate surroundings. With robust implementation and sustained efforts, BharatNet will continue to bridge the digital divide and empower every corner of India with the transformative power of the internet.