India’s Broadband Initiatives and Schemes

India operates a vast network of government schemes and infrastructure frameworks designed to bridge the digital divide, expand high-speed internet access to rural areas, and drive economic transformation through widespread digital connectivity.

Core Broadband Infrastructure Initiatives

BharatNet Project

• BharatNet is recognized as one of the largest rural telecom projects in the world, connecting all Gram Panchayats with high-speed optical fiber networks.
• It is executed by Bharat Broadband Network Limited, a special purpose vehicle under the Department of Telecommunications.
• Financing for the project is managed through the Digital Bharat Nidhi, formerly known as the Universal Service Obligation Fund.
• The amended program introduces an IP-MPLS ring-based architecture to ensure network redundancy, high reliability, and scalability for local e-governance and e-education services.

National Broadband Mission

• Launched to operationalize broadband for all by establishing universal, affordable, and high-quality digital communications infrastructure.
• It aims to create a comprehensive digital fiber map of the country by integrating optical fiber cables and telecom towers.
• The mission coordinates with states and union territories to streamline Right of Way approvals for rapid infrastructure rollout.
• It tracks implementation progress using a dedicated Broadband Readiness Index across states and union territories.

Public Wi-Fi and Last-Mile Access

PM-WANI Framework

• Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface promotes the proliferation of public Wi-Fi hotspots through small retail shops and local establishments.
• The framework eliminates licensing fees, registration requirements, and regulatory dues for Public Data Offices to encourage grassroots entrepreneurship.
• The ecosystem functions through four key layers consisting of Public Data Offices, Public Data Office Aggregators, App Providers, and a Central Registry.
• The Centre for Development of Telematics maintains the central registry for authenticating network providers and applications.

Specialized Regional and Submarine Projects

Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan

• Focuses on providing mobile and broadband coverage to remote, border, Left Wing Extremism-affected, and aspirational districts.
• Submarine optical fiber cable projects connect mainland India to island territories, including the Chennai-Andaman and Nicobar Islands link and the Kochi-Lakshadweep connection.
• Integrates satellite communication media through collaboration with the Department of Space to reach inaccessible topography.

• The Payment and Settlement Systems Act was enacted in 2007.
• Bharat Broadband Network Limited was incorporated in 2012 under the Companies Act.
• Centre for Development of Telematics was established in 1984 as an autonomous telecom research and development center.
• The Telecommunications Act of 2023 modernizes the legal framework for assigning spectrum and deploying telecom infrastructure.