Amended BharatNet Program (ABP)

News- Gujarat became the first state to implement the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) under a state led model.

About Amended BharatNet Program

Background The Government of India initiated the BharatNet project in October 2011 under the Ministry of Communications. This ambitious initiative seeks to deliver affordable high-speed internet connectivity to all Gram Panchayats across the country.

• The Union Cabinet approved the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) on 4th August 2023, to be funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN).
  • DBN is a fund created to enhance the quality and reach of telecommunications services across India. It was introduced by the Government of India as a successor to the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF).
• This updated plan aims to provide optical fiber connectivity using MPLS technology to 2.64 lakh Gram Panchayats in a ring topology.
• It will also extend internet access to about 3.8 lakh non-GP villages based on demand.

Key features of the Program

• • IP-MPLS (Internet Protocol Multi-Protocol Label Switching) network with routers at Blocks and GPs.
  • Operation and maintenance for 10 years.
  • Minimum 25 Mbps download speed for each FTTH subscriber.
  • Last-Mile Network to be implemented through BharatNet Udyami model.