The high-level review of the Amended BharatNet Program in Jammu and Kashmir marks a significant step toward bridging the vast digital divide in the region. Chaired by Chief Secretary and Telecom Secretary, the meeting reaffirmed a shared vision of delivering robust digital infrastructure to the remotest corners of the Union Territory. With urban broadband penetration at 33% and rural connectivity languishing at just 2%, this ambitious program is not just about laying cables-it’s about transforming lives. The importance of digital connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir cannot be overstated. The proposed OFC-based network upgrade, backed by a project cost of Rs 2,631 crore for J&K and Ladakh, promises to connect over 4,300 Gram Panchayats while extending Fibre-to-the-Home connections to over 200,000 users. From a developmental perspective, this investment is poised to revolutionise service delivery across healthcare, education, agriculture, and governance. High-speed internet access at the grassroots will enable students in far-flung villages to access e-learning platforms, allow farmers to receive real-time crop advisories and weather updates, and empower local industries to connect with wider markets. In an era where e-governance is the backbone of efficient administration, ensuring uninterrupted digital access to blocks and tehsils will enhance transparency, accountability, and citizen participation.
Beyond civil applications, the upgraded infrastructure is equally vital from a security standpoint. Improved connectivity will provide the Indian Army and security agencies with faster, more reliable communication networks, especially in strategically sensitive and difficult terrains. This will play a crucial role in counter-insurgency operations and in maintaining better surveillance in border areas, aiding the fight against terrorism. While the implementation timeline spans over three years and the challenges in J&K’s terrain are substantial, what matters most is the clear vision and firm intent of both the Centre and the UT administration. The proposed Network Operation Centre in Jammu reflects the seriousness of this endeavour. For successful execution, the UT Government must ensure unwavering coordination across departments and extend every logistical and administrative support post-agreement signing. ABP is a gateway to empowerment. If implemented effectively, it can transform J&K’s rural economy, bridge regional disparities, and help usher in a digitally inclusive era.
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