In a step towards strengthening digital infrastructure and accelerating broadband connectivity across rural Andhra Pradesh (AP), Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) under Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has signed an agreement for implementation of the Amended BharatNet Programme (ABP) in the state under the state-led model.
The agreement was signed between DBN, DoT; government of AP; Andhra Pradesh BharatNet Infrastructure Limited (APBIL); Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Andhra Pradesh State FiberNet Limited (APSFL) for implementation of the ABP in the state of AP.
Under ABP, the project will be implemented through APBIL. The programme will have a total scope of 13,426 gram panchayats (GPs), which includes upgradation of 1,692 phase I GPs from linear to ring topology to enhance network resilience, coverage of 11,254 phase II GPs, and inclusion of 480 newly created GPs. In addition, 3,942 villages will be provided connectivity on a demand basis to strengthen last-mile connectivity.
The government of India has approved financial support of Rs 24.32 billion for implementation of the programme in AP. The initiative is expected to facilitate more than 0.5 million rural home fibre connections with financial support from the government of India and significantly enhance delivery of digital services including e-Governance, online education, telemedicine, digital payments and citizen-centric services across rural and remote areas of the state.
The agreement is expected to accelerate execution of the programme in AP and further advance the vision of a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.