Gujarat’s Har Ghar Connectivity Programme
In January 2025, Gujarat’s Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced advancements in the state’s digital infrastructure. The initiatives aim to improve public welfare and the ‘Ease of Living’ through technology. The ‘Digital India’ campaign, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, serves as the foundation for these transformative projects. A key component of this initiative is the Har Ghar Connectivity programme, which focuses on providing high-speed internet access to rural households.
Har Ghar Connectivity Initiative
The Har Ghar Connectivity initiative aims to connect rural homes with Fibre-to-Home (FTTH) technology. This pilot project will deliver approximately 25,000 connections. It is designed to offer affordable high-speed internet along with value-added services. These services include Wi-Fi, cable television, OTT platforms, and gaming options. The initiative is a collaborative effort involving Gujarat Fibre Grid Network Limited (GFGNL) and various agencies.
Benefits of High-Speed Internet
Access to high-speed internet will empower rural communities by providing essential services. Citizens will benefit from television entertainment, digital bill payments, and Government-to-Citizen (G2C) services. The initiative will also facilitate online education and telemedicine. Additionally, it will support IoT solutions for agriculture and animal husbandry, enhancing overall productivity and quality of life.
Expansion Plans and Future Goals
Following the pilot phase, the initiative will scale up to reach more rural households. The Gujarat government aims to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas. By transforming homes into ‘smart homes’, the initiative seeks to ensure equal access to services and opportunities for rural citizens. This aligns with the broader vision of a Connected Government and Connected Communities.
Other Digital Initiatives in Gujarat
Gujarat has launched several other initiatives to enhance digital connectivity. These include the Fibre-to-Field Office initiative, which targets rural areas, and the Fibre-to-Far-Flung Towers initiative. Improvements in urban connectivity are also underway. These efforts aim to connect rural government offices to Gandhinagar via the BharatNet network, promoting seamless digital governance.
- GFGNL stands for Gujarat Fibre Grid Network Limited.
- BharatNet is a government initiative to enhance digital connectivity.
- FTTH refers to Fibre-to-Home technology.
- G2C services facilitate direct communication between government and citizens.
- IoT in agriculture refers to smart farming solutions using technology.
Leadership in Digital Connectivity
Gujarat has been recognised as a leader in digital connectivity initiatives. The state was the first to be selected for BharatNet Phase-3 under the State-Led Model. This selection follows a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Central Government. The commitment to maintaining leadership in digital infrastructure is evident in the ongoing projects and initiatives. The government aims to create a robust digital ecosystem that benefits all citizens, particularly in rural areas.
Month: Current Affairs - January, 2025
Category: Government Schemes Current Affairs