Which one of the following ICT projects was launched by the Government of India to reduce the rural digital gap aiming to connect 2.5 Lakh gram panchayats with optical fiber ?

The correct answer is - BharatNet project

Key Points

• BharatNet project
  • The BharatNet project was launched by the Government of India to provide high-speed broadband connectivity in rural areas.
  • The aim is to connect 2.5 lakh gram panchayats across the country using optical fiber.
  • It is one of the world's largest rural broadband connectivity initiatives, ensuring the reduction of the digital divide between rural and urban areas.
  • The project is implemented in a phased manner and is a key part of the Digital India initiative.
  • This initiative supports the provision of e-governance, e-health, e-education, and other digital services to rural communities.

Additional Information

• Digital India Initiative
  • The Digital India initiative was launched in 2015 to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
  • It aims to enhance digital infrastructure, improve digital literacy, and deliver government services digitally.
• BharatNet Project Phases
  • Phase 1: Focused on laying optical fiber cables to connect gram panchayats.
  • Phase 2: Aimed at extending connectivity to remote areas and ensuring last-mile connectivity.
• Importance of Broadband in Rural Areas
  • Broadband connectivity enables access to online education, telemedicine, and e-commerce services in rural areas.
  • It helps in improving the socio-economic conditions of rural communities by promoting digital inclusion.