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Source – This post is based on the article “PM inaugurates Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fiber Connection” published in “PIB” on 3rd January 2024.
Why in the News?
PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fiber Connection (KLI-SOFC) project in Kavaratti, Lakshadweep.
What is Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fiber Connection (KLI-SOFC) project?
| Specifications | Details |
| What is it? | 1) The KLI project extended submarine cable connectivity from Kochi to eleven Lakshadweep Islands, including Kavaratti, Agatti, Minicoy etc. 2) Previously, communication with the Islands relied solely on satellite, with limited bandwidth capacity unable to meet the growing demand. 3) Population of Lakshadweep Islands will be provided high speed wireline broadband connectivity through FTTH and 5G/4G Mobile network. |
| Funded by | Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF), Department of Telecommunication |
| Total link distance | 1,868 kms |
| Implementing Agencies | 1) BSNL, as the Project Executing Agency 2) M/s NEC Corporation India Pvt Ltd received the contract for work. |
| Major activities related to the project | Marine Route Survey, Submarine Cable laying, Civil Construction of CLS stations, Installation, Testing and Commissioning of End Terminals (SLTE). |
What are the benefits of the Project?
1) It will contribute significantly to the ‘Digital India‘ and ‘National Broadband Mission‘ objectives, facilitating the implementation of various e-governance projects in the Lakshadweep Islands by the Government of India.
2) It will help in boosting E-Governance, Tourism, Education, Health, Commerce, and Industriesin the region, which may lead to enhanced standards of living and accelerated social and economic development on the island.
3) The bandwidth created under this project will be available to all Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) to strengthen their telecom services in the Lakshadweep Islands.
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