New Delhi: Seeking to achieve multi-pronged targets vis-a-vis improved digital connectivity, effective dissemination of information, skill up-gradation and development, the Union Cabinet on November 17 gave the nod to provide 4G mobile services in over 7,000 villages of 44 aspirational districts across Maoist-hit states.
Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Odisha would be the five states benefited from the move.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur told reporters that mobile towers connectivity would be provided in the Left-Wing Extremist areas.
He said the project is expected to be worth Rs 6466 crore and would be funded by the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF).
This project will be completed within 18 months after the signing of the Agreement. As of now, November 23, 2023, has been set as the target date to achieve the same.
Officials say the work related to providing 4G mobile services in identified uncovered villages will be awarded through an open competitive bidding process.
Mr Thakur said this would fulfil the vision of Digital India promoting domestic manufacturing and fulfilling the objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The Cabinet has also approved the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)-I, PMGSY-II, and Road Connectivity Project for Left-Wing Extremism Affected Areas.
He said, 4490 Km road length and 105 bridges have already been completed under RCP LWEA since 2016 in 44 districts in nine states.
The government had launched PMGSY-III in 2019 for consolidation of 1,25,000 Km road length by March 2025.
The Road Connectivity Project for Left Wing Extremism Affected Areas was launched in 2016 for the construction and up-gradation of 5,412 Km road length and 126 bridges of strategic importance in nine states, including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh.
