Six Lakh Villages in India to Be Connected with Fibre Network in Three Years: Report
India is set to experience a significant leap in rural connectivity with the government’s ambitious plan to connect six lakh villages with high-speed optical fibre-based broadband within the next three years. This initiative is part of the BharatNet Phase 3 rollout, which aims to strengthen digital infrastructure across the country, particularly in rural areas, and drive the expansion of Global Capability Centers (GCCs) into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
BharatNet Phase 3: Connecting Rural India
The BharatNet Phase 3 project, with an investment of Rs 1.39 lakh crore, is designed to bring high-speed internet to rural areas, which have long been underserved in terms of digital connectivity.
- Scope of the Project: The project will connect approximately 2.5 lakh village panchayats and their associated villages, totaling around 6 lakh villages across India. This extensive network of optical fibre cables (OFC) will ensure that even the most remote areas are included in the digital revolution.
- Government’s Role: According to Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal, this fibre network will not only provide essential connectivity but will also pave the way for the expansion of Global Capability Centers into smaller cities, moving beyond metropolitan hubs.
Supporting GCC Expansion into Tier 2 and Tier 3 Cities
A crucial aspect of BharatNet Phase 3 is its focus on supporting the expansion of Global Capability Centers (GCCs) into cities that are typically not considered business hubs. This expansion is expected to bring economic development and job opportunities to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
- Strategic Expansion: By increasing broadband access in these regions, the government is creating an enabling environment for international companies to set up or expand their operations in cities outside the metro areas.
- Talent and Infrastructure: India’s talent pool, advanced connectivity, and low-cost data make it a highly attractive destination for GCCs, offering a combination of skilled professionals and robust digital infrastructure.
Optical Fibre for Mobile Towers and 6G Future
The BharatNet Phase 3 initiative is not just about connecting villages—it also aims to strengthen the mobile network infrastructure in India, ensuring faster internet speeds and future-proofing the country for 6G services.
- Mobile Towers: One of the key components of the rollout is connecting mobile towers with optical fibre cables to enhance network speed and provide a more stable mobile internet experience.
- Future of 6G: The move to expand fibre infrastructure also lays the groundwork for the upcoming 6G network, ensuring that India stays ahead in the global race for next-generation connectivity.
India’s Competitive Advantage in Connectivity
India’s low data costs and strong digital infrastructure position it as a global leader in telecom and technology, making it an ideal location for GCCs.
- Data Costs: India’s data costs are among the lowest in the world, with 9 cents per GB, compared to the global average of USD 2.6 per GB. This cost efficiency is a significant driver for companies looking to set up operations in the country.
- Broadband Speed: India’s median broadband speed is currently around 138 Mbps, and nearly 99.6% of areas hosting GCCs are already covered by 5G. Only two districts remain without 5G coverage, indicating the country’s progress in adopting cutting-edge technologies.
The 5G Footprint and Expanding Access
India is making rapid strides in the deployment of 5G technology, which is essential for the growth of GCCs and digital businesses.
- 5G Rollout: 99.6% of GCC areas are already covered by 5G, with only two districts still lacking 5G service. The government is pushing for a more widespread rollout to ensure even Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities have access to this next-generation technology.
- Commercialization: The recent allocation of 5G licenses to three companies will allow them to commercialize services and bring 5G to smaller cities, further enhancing the reach and capabilities of GCCs.
Single-Window Portal for Business Approvals
To ease the process of setting up and expanding businesses in India, the government is developing a single-window portal to streamline approvals related to cable landing stations and other telecom infrastructure.
- Business Facilitation: This platform will simplify the approval process for international firms and reduce bureaucracy, making it easier for businesses to establish a digital presence in India.
- Support for SMEs and Startups: The government is also working to create an enabling environment for startups, SMEs, and R&D efforts, aiming to foster innovation in the telecom and tech sectors.
