Digital Bharat Nidhi

Digital Bharat Nidhi is an initiative of India’s Department of Telecommunications under the Ministry of Communications. It supports the expansion of affordable, reliable telecommunications and digital services in areas where private investment may not be commercially viable, particularly rural and remote communities. Its aim is to narrow the digital divide, improve access to information and knowledge, and support socio-economic development.

The initiative provides subsidy support to telecom service providers and promotes universal access to communications. Its work includes expanding mobile coverage, broadband and fibre-optic connectivity, and supporting research, pilot projects, consultancy, and the adoption of new telecommunications technologies. Major programmes include BharatNet, which connects Gram Panchayats and enables broadband and FTTH services, as well as mobile connectivity projects in underserved villages, the Northeast, and areas affected by left-wing extremism. Digital Bharat Nidhi also supports submarine optical fibre links serving island communities, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep. Through these projects, it seeks to bring underserved people and regions into India’s growing digital network and make essential connectivity more widely available.