USO
Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN)
Under the Telecommunication Act 2023 and the Telecommunications (Administration of Digital Bharat Nidhi) Rules 2024, the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), earlier created under the Indian Telegraph Act 1885, is now known as Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN).
Its purpose is to support telecom services in areas where commercial operations are not viable.
What Universal Service Means
Universal service is the idea that every citizen should be able to connect with others through a reliable and affordable telecom network.
In today’s context, it focuses on:
- A phone and affordable service for every household
- Internet access across all district headquarters
- Telephone service on demand in both urban and rural areas
Objectives of Digital Bharat Nidhi
- Provide financial support for telecom infrastructure in underserved regions
- Expand equitable access to modern communication services
- Encourage adoption of emerging technologies for rural and remote connectivity
- Bridge the viability gap through targeted and efficient subsidy support
- Promote partnerships with industry and service providers
- Align with global best practices in universal service delivery
Key Functions of the Joint CCA
- Implementing DBN projects and schemes
- Monitoring project progress and ensuring compliance with guidelines
- Managing timely and accurate disbursement of financial support
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Ongoing DBN Schemes in Chhattisgarh Circle: At a glance |
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Sl. No. |
Activity |
Name of USP/TSP |
Date of Agreement |
Validity Period |
Objective of the Scheme |
Scope of Commission |
No. Commissioned |
|
1 |
LWE Phase-II |
RJIL |
9/28/2021 |
10 years |
Providing 4G mobile services and connectivity in the Left Wing Extremism affected areas for socio-economic development |
971 |
412 |
|
2 |
LWE-II Additional 128 |
RJIL |
5/9/2023 |
10 years |
Providing 4G mobile services and connectivity in the Left Wing Extremism affected areas for socio-economic development |
128 |
70 |
|
2 |
4G based Mobile Services in identified uncovered villages in 7827 Aspirational Districts-RJIL |
RJIL |
5/20/2022 |
10 years |
Providing 4G mobile services and connectivity in the Uncovered Villages of aspirational districts areas to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive development |
456 |
226 |
|
3 |
BharatNet O&M |
BSNL |
8/29/2022 |
6/30/2025 |
To providing high-speed fiber connectivity to GPs upto the last mile, ensuring digital connectivity for all. |
4112 |
2190 |
|
4 |
Saturation of 4G Mobile Tower Project |
BSNL |
3/6/2023 |
6 years 135 days |
Providing 4G mobile services in all uncovered and remote villages to ensure universal digital connectivity |
663 |
421 |
|
5 |
Physical Verification, Coverage Evaluation & EQS Verification |
ITI Ltd. |
7/10/2024 |
10 years |
Verification of mobile towers installed under various DBN funded schemes |
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