Transforming Arunachal Pradesh with Telecom Boost: A Digital Revolution

18 Sep 2023

In this digital era, access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Arunachal Pradesh, nestled in the far Eastern frontier of India has always struggled with connectivity due to harsh and rugged mountainous terrains.

However, over the past couple of years, the state of Arunachal Pradesh has witnessed a slew of developmental milestones, gradually paving way for unlocking advancement in the landlocked region. Consequentially, the state has also benefitted immensely in the telecommunications sector, strengthening connectivity along the way.

In other words, the transformation has brought about unprecedented connectivity and digital progress to the region. With a focus on enhancing the lives of its citizens and fostering economic growth, Arunachal Pradesh has witnessed a surge in 4G connectivity, online services and access to information like never before.

With the active support and diligent efforts of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), our remote and picturesque state is now embracing the full potential of the Internet era. In this comprehensive blog, we will delve into the details of the telecom boost in Arunachal Pradesh, exploring how it has positively impacted the lives of its residents.

 BSNL 4G Saturation Project: Connecting the Unconnected

 The quest to link Arunachal Pradesh to the rest of India began with BSNL’s ambitious project to provide comprehensive 4G coverage. Before this project, 1251 out of the 1901 villages in the area were disconnected from the digital world. However, with the active intervention of BSNL, concrete measures have been taken to bridge this gap, thereby upgrading 604 villages from 2G/3G to 4G. Additionally, other TSPs have uplifted 46 more villages, collectively forming a strong network of connectivity throughout the state.

The progress is a result of BSNL’s relentless efforts to provide 4G connectivity even to the remotest of far-flung areas. Now, these villages can enjoy the advantages of being connected to the World Wide Web, just like the people in urban township areas.

USOF 4G Mobile Towers (Airtel) Project: Bridging the Connectivity Gap

 Owing to the collaboration between Airtel and the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), every single village in Arunachal Pradesh is set to be connected with mobile coverage. With the erection of 561 4G mobile towers, 1036 villages that lacked coverage now have access. Already, 155 of these towers are broadcasting signals and another 265 villages are set to gain connectivity in the near future. Looking ahead, the goal is to establish 711 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS), ensuring that Arunachal Pradesh will have an unrivalled digital infrastructure.

Kibithoo’s 4G Milestone: Connecting the First Village of India

The state of Arunachal Pradesh has unlocked a noteworthy accomplishment in its progress towards digital inclusion with the implementation of 4G connectivity in the easternmost corner of India, where the remote village of Kibithoo is situated on the Indo-Tibetan border. Kibithoo was once counted among the last of villages in India. But with a shift in focus towards advancing Northeast India as a whole, the easternmost border village is now regarded as the first of villages, from where the nation starts. Naturally, connecting Kibithoo digitally holds great significance and is considered a major milestone towards a digitally connected future for the entire state.

Infrastructure Development: Connecting Beyond Villages

 Arunachal Pradesh is approaching infrastructure development holistically in an effort to connect areas beyond villages. The boost in telecom infrastructure is evident as a total of 827 sites have been commissioned with Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL) VSAT technology. Additionally, 391 sites have been commissioned to connect vital institutions such as girls’ schools, police stations, and Primary Health Centers (PHCs). The construction of 2,605 4G towers is also underway, set to connect an additional 3,721 underserved villages in the near future. All of these infrastructural improvements are laying the foundation for a digitally empowered Arunachal Pradesh.

SWAN Project: Enabling Digital Governance

 The successful completion of the first phase of the State Wide Area Network (SWAN) Project marks a vital milestone in the transition towards digital governance. With this achievement, the public can now conveniently access vital government services, resources, and information.

Furthermore, this project showcases Arunachal’s determination to provide people with reliable and efficient connectivity. It has attained a phenomenal 100% completion rate, thus facilitating uninterrupted communication and data exchange between different government offices. The SWAN project’s implementation aims to promote transparent and effective governance through the use of technology.

The Widespread Impact of Improved Connectivity on Arunachal Pradesh:

 The positive ramifications of this telecom boost are felt across Arunachal Pradesh. With the advent of 4G connectivity, several sectors have been invigorated that have ushered in a new era of possibilities. Here are some of the transformative changes witnessed:

  1. 4G Connectivity: The most immediate and obvious benefit is the widespread access to 4G internet. Arunachal Pradesh is now connected to 4G networks, ensuring faster data speeds, smoother online experiences and more reliable internet access for its residents.
  2. Online Payment: Online transactions and payments have become convenient and secure, reducing the dependence on physical cash. The ease of online payment methods has revolutionized financial transactions, making them convenient for residents and businesses alike.
  3. Online Shopping: Access to e-commerce platforms has expanded, allowing residents to shop for global products from the comfort of their homes. Arunachal Pradesh now enjoys access to a wide range of online shopping platforms, expanding choices and opportunities for consumers.
  4. Online Form Fill-up: Educational and administrative processes have been streamlined with online form filling, simplifying access to education and government services.
  5. Online Resources: Access to educational resources, books, videos, and news has become readily available, reducing the reliance on traditional television broadcasts. Such access to online resources without traditional means has broadened horizons and increased knowledge sharing.
  6. Government Online Services: Government services are now more accessible than ever, fostering transparency and efficiency in governance. Various government services are now accessible online through eServices, eSeva etc. making it easier for residents to access essential services and information.

Conclusion:

 The transformation in Arunachal Pradesh’s telecom sector is much more than just connectivity; it represents advancement, inclusion, and empowerment. By bridging the digital gap, the residents of the state are experiencing the benefits of a more connected world. As online services, improved infrastructure, and 4G networks become more widespread, Arunachal Pradesh is on the cusp of a digitally enriched future. This shift sets an example of how technology can uplift even the most isolated corners of our nation, contributing to overall progress. The state’s telecom boost has not just connected the villages; it has also linked their determination and aspirations. Arunachal Pradesh is on a journey of growth and development, fueled by the transformative potential of connectivity. As the state continues to expand its 4G networks, it is on track to reap the rewards of a digitally empowered future, marking a significant milestone in India’s digital revolution.

Links

https://twitter.com/PemaKhanduBJP/status/1653035876509790209?t=1q0bzhw_c1t0kJzzKeUo6A&s=08

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https://twitter.com/PemaKhanduBJP/status/1653396198617935874?t=d79rbYgH63TrppCXly5hEA&s=08

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https://twitter.com/MyGovArunachal/status/1675814890458738689?t=BY9gFzIkhGShAy-D_pDUhg&s=08

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https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1649686766235041793?t=y8tTmhHY3Bi2LHJh1qZZMA&s=08

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