Odisha Reviews Digital India Telecom Projects, Pushes Faster Internet Expansion in Rural Areas

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has directed telecom operators to accelerate network expansion and strengthen mobile and internet connectivity in remote parts of the State, with a renewed focus on bridging the rural digital divide under the Digital India Fund.

The directions were issued by Electronics and Information Technology Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling while chairing a review meeting on telecom infrastructure projects at the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC) in Bhubaneswar on Thursday.

The meeting reviewed the progress of mobile connectivity, 4G expansion and installation of new telecom towers, particularly in underserved rural and tribal regions where access to reliable digital services remains limited.

A major focus of the review was Phase III of the BharatNet project, which aims to upgrade 6,799 Gram Panchayats in Odisha to Ring Topology with IP MPLS technology and extend Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) connectivity to villages across the State.

Officials informed the Minister that the project is being implemented under the Digital India Mission and is expected to play a crucial role in expanding broadband access to rural households and public institutions.

Dr Mahaling directed officials to ensure the timely completion of the BharatNet rollout within the next three years, in line with the government’s vision of connecting every village with high-speed internet and expanding access to digital services.

He asked telecom companies to identify and address existing gaps in network coverage while expediting the installation of mobile towers and the expansion of 4G services in poorly connected areas.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of maintaining telecom infrastructure during natural disasters. He directed officials to ensure the protection of network equipment during the monsoon and flood season, improve internet connectivity at critical locations and guarantee uninterrupted digital services in hospitals and other essential institutions.

Representatives of telecom operators, including BSNL, informed the meeting that they are committed to strengthening network connectivity across Odisha by December 2026 through ongoing infrastructure expansion and service improvements.

Dr Mahaling said stronger telecom infrastructure would enable people in remote areas to access education, healthcare, e-governance, financial services and employment opportunities, making digital connectivity a key driver of inclusive development.

The review meeting was attended by officials of the Electronics and IT Department, OCAC Chief Executive Officer Dr Pradeep Kumar Raut, and representatives of various telecom service providers.