PROJECT FOR SATURATION OF 4G MOBILE SERVICES IN UNCOVERED VILLAGES

About:

• The project will provide 4G mobile services in 24,680 uncovered villages in remote and difficult areas. The project has a provision to include 20% additional villages on account of rehabilitation, new-settlements, withdrawal of services by existing operators etc.
• In addition, 6,279 villages having only 2G/3G connectivity shall be upgraded to 4G.
• The project will be executed by BSNL using Atmanirbhar Bharat’s 4G technology stack and will be funded through Universal Service Obligation Fund.
• The project cost of Rs. 26,316 Cr includes capex and 5 year opex.
• The project is a significant step towards the vision of the Government to provide mobile connectivity in rural areas.

Background

• Last year Government approved a project for providing 4G mobile services in 7,287 uncovered villages in 44 aspirational districts across 5 states.
• In his Independence Day address in 2021, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi gave a call for saturation of government schemes.