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-Pinkesh Kotecha
In the digital landscape of India, the urban-rural connectivity divide remains stark, with only 41% of rural areas having access to the internet compared to 71% in urban regions, according to IAMAI and KANTAR. Despite living in an era of hyper-connectivity, a significant 51.3% of the population, roughly 730 million people, still lack reliable internet access.
Beyond connecting villages, the government’s project also aims to be a catalyst for small businesses across these regions. By providing robust and high-speed connectivity, fiber optics contribute to creating a digital infrastructure that can empower and boost local enterprises. These businesses, previously limited by connectivity constraints, now have the potential to thrive, tapping into a broader market, engaging in e-commerce, and leveraging digital platforms for growth. BharatNet 2.0 becomes not just a technological upgrade but a gateway for economic empowerment, fostering a landscape where small businesses in rural areas can flourish. ICT players are advancing the BharatNet project by taking following steps.
Unleashing Bandwidth Potential
Traditionally, rural connectivity grappled with unreliable microwave links, outdated copper cabling, and sporadic fiber deployment. However, the landscape shifted dramatically with the rise of fiber-optic technology in network infrastructure. The advent of OFC-based networks significantly empowered internet inclusivity. Companies in the ICT sector have deployed networks from the arid deserts of Rajasthan to the rugged hills of Himachal Pradesh, employing inventive solutions like micro-trenching and aerial fiber deployment.These methods effectively navigate the geographical complexities, ensuring that every village becomes an integral node in the expansive digital web, enabling better QoS and paving the way for monetization opportunities.
Enhancing Quality of Service and Monetization: Public-Private Partnerships in Network Management
Managing network complexities and ensuring successful monetization are pivotal challenges in infrastructure development. The efficient handling of networks is crucial to maintain seamless connectivity and overcome potential bottlenecks. Simultaneously, monetizing infrastructure requires smart utilization of revenue streams for sustainable profitability.
In this landscape, Viability Gap Funding (VGF) emerges as a key support within the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Itbridges financial disparities, encouraging private sector involvement in enhancing rural connectivity and infrastructure.Enabling Regional ISPs with VGF for FTTH rollout enables faster lastmile rollout.
The revamped BharatNet, supported by Viability Gap Funding, recognizes the integral role of private companies in fostering connectivity and economic growth. Another key element for Bharatnet Monetisation involves Regional ISPs playing a vital role enhancing the effectiveness of the BharatNet network for more efficient, seamless implementation and enhanced utilization.
Our strategy employs adual approach of leveraging the EPC +PPP model, under Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model to which includes establishment of a robust, reliable and future proof data networkthat forms the backbone. Subsequently, private companies like us manage the complete network and monetization under the PPP model. This involves diverse revenue streams like duct leasing, smart pole installations, 4G/5G hosting, point-to-point dark fiber leasing, and data off-loading. From the construction phase to infrastructure utilization and management, our engagement ensures a holistic and sustainable model.
Through these concerted efforts, rural communities stand to benefit significantly. Reliable and high-speed broadband connectivity, facilitated by companies like Ishan, becomes the gateway to a plethora of opportunities. Education, healthcare, entrepreneurship – these sectors can flourish, driving overall socio-economic development in the heart of rural India.
Safeguarding Digital India
The landscape of technology is ever-evolving, and ICT players must stay ahead of the curve to future-proof BharatNet’s connectivity blueprint. Embracing advancements such as edge computing, and IoT can position India at the forefront of the global digital revolution. As BharatNet connects more citizens and businesses, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. ICT players should prioritize the implementation of robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive data and protect against cyber threats. Collaborative efforts with cybersecurity experts and government agencies can fortify the digital infrastructure, ensuring a secure and resilient network for BharatNet.
The strides made with BharatNet 2.0 underscore an unwavering commitment to inclusivity, seeking to encompass every village and remote corner within the digital embrace. As ICT companies spearhead this transformative journey and craft the connectivity blueprint, regional ISPs emerge as pivotal collaborators, instrumental in ensuring a seamless and efficient roll-out. This partnership, architecting an inspiring narrative of a connected Bharat, envisions every Gram Panchayat as a hub teeming with opportunities, where each villager evolves into an empowered digital citizen. Leveraging the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) and its strategic utilization further fortifies this collective endeavor, providing essential support to ensure widespread and equitable access to digital infrastructure nationwide.
(The author is the MD and Chairman of Ishan Technologies. The views expressed are his own)
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