Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Telecommunications Act, 2023:
1. Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) Fund, established under the Act, aims to replace the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF).
2. DBN funds are first credited to the Consolidated Fund of India before allocation.
3. Digital Bharat Nidhi Fund also provides subsidies for smartphone purchases to enhance digital connectivity and accessibility in underserved regions.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Answer: B
Notes:
Explanation –
Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The “Digital Bharat Nidhi” is a fund established under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, aimed at enhancing telecommunication services in India, particularly in underserved and remote areas. It is intended to replace the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) to address issues such as underutilization of funds and bureaucratic inefficiencies, and to broaden the scope of enhancing telecom services in underserved areas. The funds for the Digital Bharat Nidhi are first credited to the Consolidated Fund of India (CFI) before being allocated to various projects under the DBN.
Statement 3 is incorrect. DBN does not provide provides subsidies for smartphone purchases.
Source: AIR
