Cabinet approves to upgrade 2G mobile sites to 4G in Naxal-hit areas

New Delhi, April 28: The Union Cabinet chaired by the PM Narendra Modi has approved a Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) project for upgrading 2G mobile services to 4G at security sites in Left Wing Extremism areas.

 

 

As per the government, 2,343 Left Wing Extremism (LWE) Phase-I sites will be upgraded from 2G to 4G mobile services at an estimated cost of Rs 1,884.59 crore, which includes operation and maintenance for five years. The Cabinet also approved funding of operations and maintenance costs of LWE Phase-I 2G sites by BSNL for an extended period beyond the contractual period of five years at an estimated cost of Rs 541.80 crore.

 

Addressing the media on the cabinet decision, Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur said that this will enable better internet and data services in these LWE areas. The project will take place in 10 states including Uttar Pradesh, Chhatisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha and Maharastra. He said, alll the sites will be upgraded by BSNL.

 

The government chose BSNL for a prestigious project to indigenous 4G telecom equipment so as to achieve self-reliance in the telecom gear segment to fulfil domestic market needs apart from exporting to other markets. This 4G equipment will be deployed in this project also.

 

The upgradation will enable better internet and data services in the Naxal-hit areas. It meets the requirements of Ministry of Home Affairs and the state governments. It shall also fulfil the communication needs of the security personnel deployed in these areas. The proposal is in line with the goal of providing mobile connectivity in rural areas. In addition, delivery of various e-governance services, banking services, tele-medicine; tele-education etc. through mobile broadband shall be possible in these areas.