BharatNet Expands Connectivity to Rural India

1 min readUpdated Jun 4, 2025Mar 31, 20255:29 AM

In this article (5)

In a written response to the Rajya Sabha, Baghel stated that the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is implementing the project in phases to ensure broadband connectivity reaches all Gram Panchayats nationwide.

The BharatNet infrastructure is classified as a national asset and is accessible to service providers without discrimination. It supports various broadband services, including Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) connections, leased lines, dark fiber, and backhaul connections for mobile towers. As of February 2025, a total of 2,14,323 Gram Panchayats are service-ready, Baghel confirmed.

Additionally, the Union Cabinet has approved the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP), adopting a design, build, operate, and maintain (DBOM) model. The revised program aims to upgrade the existing network under BharatNet Phases I and II, expand connectivity to approximately 42,000 Gram Panchayats that are yet to become service-ready, and ensure network operation and maintenance for the next decade.

Baghel also noted that Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has been assigned the task of providing 1.50 crore FTTH connections to households over the next five years. The completion timeline for the ABP is set for March 2027.

AdvertisementAdvertise with usMobile 320×100

What this means

The ambitious BharatNet expansion, backed by the Union Cabinet's Amended BharatNet Program, presents a significant opportunity for retailers to tap into India's vast rural consumer base. With 2,14,323 Gram Panchayats already service-ready and 42,000 more targeted, the infrastructure directly facilitates digital retail, e-commerce, and efficient last-mile delivery. The DoT's open access policy to this national asset encourages a competitive service provider landscape, benefiting retailers through lower connectivity costs and improved service. BSNL's goal of 1.50 crore FTTH connections further solidifies digital access. The main risk lies in the timely and effective rollout by March 2027, ensuring robust operation and maintenance for the next decade. Watch for initial retailer adoption rates in these newly connected regions.

Aiko Tanaka

Questions & Answers

What is the primary objective of the BharatNet project?

The project aims to provide broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats across the nation. It supports various broadband services, including FTTH connections, leased lines, dark fiber, and backhaul connections for mobile towers, ensuring widespread access.

How many Gram Panchayats are currently ready for service under BharatNet?

As of February 2025, a total of 2,14,323 Gram Panchayats are reported as service-ready. This indicates significant progress in rolling out the broadband infrastructure to rural areas as confirmed by Baghel.

What is the key difference introduced by the Amended BharatNet Program?

The Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) adopts a design, build, operate, and maintain (DBOM) model. It focuses on upgrading existing networks, expanding connectivity to 42,000 more Gram Panchayats, and ensuring network operation for the next decade.

When is the Amended BharatNet Program expected to be completed?

The completion timeline for the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) is set for March 2027. This includes upgrading the existing network, expanding to additional Gram Panchayats, and committing to a decade of operation and maintenance.

Reader pulse

BharatNet's rural expansion:

17,938 votes so far