The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday approved a Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) project for upgrading 2G mobile services to 4G at security sites in Left Wing Extremism areas.
The project envisages upgrading 2,343 Left Wing Extremism Phase-I sites from 2G to 4G mobile services at an estimated cost of Rs 1,884.59 crore (excluding taxes and levies). This includes Operations and Maintenance (O&M) for five years. However, BSNL will maintain the sites for another five years at its own cost. The work will be awarded to BSNL because these sites belong to BSNL, according to an official release.
The cabinet also approved funding of operations and maintenance cost 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. The extension will be up to 12 months from the date of approval by the cabinet or commissioning of 4G sites, whichever is earlier.
"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 release said.
The upgrading will enable better internet and data services in these LSW areas. It meets the requirements of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the state governments and 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, the release said.
( With inputs from ANI )
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