US$ 9.54 billion (Rs. 80,000 crore) 'Digital Bharat Nidhi' fund to boost urban telecom services

The central government announced that the US$ 9.54 billion (Rs. 80,000 crore) Digital Bharat Nidhi will now fund telecommunication services in urban areas. Projects funded under this scheme must meet specific criteria, such as enhancing telecom service affordability and security. The funding will support mobile and broadband services and telecommunication equipment. This initiative, notified under the Telecommunications Act 2023, aims to improve telecom services and security in underserved rural, remote, and urban areas.

Minister of Communications and Development of Northeastern Region Mr. Jyotiraditya M. Scindia highlighted that the new rules under the Digital Bharat Nidhi will ensure equal access to telecom services and contribute to India's goal of becoming 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. As of March 2024, the fund had a balance of US$ 9.49 billion (Rs. 79,638 crore). They were formerly known as the Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF). The Digital Bharat Nidhi now addresses a broader range of needs, reflecting technological advancements. The fund’s expansion under the Telecommunications Act 2023 aims to set relevant benchmarks, promote startups, and support indigenous technology. Projects funded must operate and maintain telecommunication networks on an open and non-discriminatory basis.

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