BharatNet Under PPP Model: Know Consumer-Friendly Advantages

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today approved a revamped BharatNet implementation strategy in 16 states using a public-private partnership model. In the aforementioned States, BharatNet will now be extended to all inhabited villages beyond Gram Panchayats (GPs). The maximum viability gap funding permitted for the PPP model mentioned above is Rs. 19,041 crores.

The updated strategy also calls for the concessionaire to build, upgrade, operate, maintain, and use BharatNet, which would be chosen through a competitive international bidding procedure.

What are the states covered under Bharatnet PPP Model?

The States covered under the Cabinet approval today are Kerala, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. An estimated 3.61 lakh villages including GPs will be covered.

BharatNet PPP Model will bring in the following consumer-friendly advantages:

a) The private sector provider's use of cutting-edge technology for the benefit of consumers;

(b) Consumers receive high-quality service and a high level of service;

(c) Increased network deployment speed and customer connectivity;

b) Service pricing that is competitive;

(e) A wide range of high-speed internet services, including over-the-top (OTT) and multi-media services, as part of consumer packages, and

(f) Online access to all services.

The use of a public-private partnership (PPP) model in this crucial telecom infrastructure is an innovative venture. The Private Sector Partner will also be expected to make an equity commitment and raise funds for capital expenditures as well as network operation and maintenance. As a result, the BharatNet PPP Model will improve efficiency, quality of service, and consumer experience while also leveraging private sector expertise, entrepreneurship, and resources to accelerate India's digital transformation. This will be in addition to significant public-funding reductions.