DIGITAL BHARAT NIDHI -
GOVERNANCE
News:
What is Digital Bharat Nidhi, govt’s
fresh attempt at improving rural telecom connectivity?
What's in the news?
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Recently, the Department
of Telecommunications (DoT) released draft rules to operationalise the Digital
Bharat Nidhi, in a fresh attempt by the central government at increasing
telecom connectivity in rural areas.
Digital Bharat Nidhi:
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Digital Bharat Nidhi
(DBN) is an initiative by the Department
of Telecommunications (DoT).
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It replaces the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) to
ensure better allocation of resources.
Aim:
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To improve internet connectivity, particularly in
rural, remote, and economically disadvantaged areas.
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To foster technology innovation, create
regulatory sandboxes, and enhance the global presence of India’s telecom
sector.
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To promote innovation,
indigenous technology development, and standardization.
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To support startups in the telecom sector and the manufacturing of
telecom equipment.
Key Features:
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DBN will focus on
research, development, and overall connectivity improvement.
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It encourages telecom
services for underserved groups, including women and people with disabilities.
Management:
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Telecom companies
contributions to the Digital Bharat Nidhi will first be credited to the Consolidated Fund of India (CFI) and
then later deposited into the DBN.
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An administrator functioning
under the central government will manage the fund, and projects will be
executed by implementers selected through bidding or direct applications,
ensuring transparency.
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The administrator will
tailor payment methods (full, partial, co-funding) based on specific
connectivity needs.
Significance of the
Fund:
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The funds will be used
to promote access to telecommunication
services, support research and development, fund pilot projects, and
introduce new telecom technologies in underserved areas.