Chhattisgarh BharatNet Programme implementation has taken a major step forward. Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), has signed an agreement with the Government of Chhattisgarh. The deal covers rollout of the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) in the state under the State-led model.
The signing took place at Sanchar Bhawan, New Delhi. Signatories included DBN, DoT, the Government of Chhattisgarh, Chhattisgarh State BharatNet Infrastructure Limited (CSBIL), Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Chhattisgarh Infotech Promotion Society (CHiPS). The agreement aims to speed up execution. It also targets stronger rural digital infrastructure, better last-mile connectivity and improved digital service delivery across the state.
What the Amended BharatNet Programme Covers
The Union Cabinet approved the Amended BharatNet Program on August 4, 2023. Its goal is clear. Upgrade, consolidate and expand the existing BharatNet network. The aim is future-ready broadband for all Gram Panchayats and villages, delivered on a demand basis.
Chhattisgarh BharatNet Programme: Scope and Coverage
CSBIL will implement the programme in Chhattisgarh. The rollout covers 11,682 Gram Panchayats. Work includes three parts. First, upgrading 4,048 Phase-I Gram Panchayats from linear to ring topology. This step improves network resilience. Second, extending coverage to 5,964 Phase-II Gram Panchayats. Third, adding 1,670 newly created Gram Panchayats to the network.
Beyond Gram Panchayats, the programme reaches further. It will connect 8,328 villages on a demand basis. This step strengthens last-mile broadband access across rural Chhattisgarh.
Funding and Expected Impact
The Government of India has approved Rs 3,942 crore in financial support for the state. The programme is expected to enable more than three lakh rural home fibre connections. Government funding backs each of these connections.
Building a Digitally Empowered Rural Economy
Expanded broadband infrastructure will strengthen access to key digital services. E-Governance becomes easier to reach. Online education gets a boost. Telemedicine, digital payments and other citizen services all stand to benefit. The Chhattisgarh BharatNet Programme marks a significant step toward faster ABP execution in the state. It also supports the broader goal of a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
