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18th January 2025 (10 Topics)

National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0

Context

The Department of Telecommunications launched NBM 2.0, an upgraded version of the previous National Broadband Mission (launched in December 2019). The Sanchar Saathi mobile app (an extension of the existing website) has been also launched.

Key Goals of NBM 2.0:

  • Fiber Connectivity Expansion:
    • The mission aims to extend fiber optic broadband to 7 lakh villages by 2030 (up from 50,000 currently).
    • 90% of anchor institutions like schools, anganwadis, health centers, and panchayat offices should be connected by fiber by 2030.
  • Increase Rural Subscribers: The target is to raise the share of rural broadband subscribers from 45% to 60% by 2030.
  • Improving Fixed Internet Speeds: Ensuring faster internet speeds in rural areas and improving wireless connectivity.
  • Right of Way and 5G:
    • The Mission focuses on making it easier to lay telecom infrastructure by facilitating Right of Way (permissions for laying fiber and telecom towers).
    • Efforts will be made to improve 5G connectivity by developing better street infrastructure for telecom equipment.
    • Collaboration between Union and State Governments is necessary to streamline permissions for telecom infrastructure.

Fact Box:

National Broadband Mission 1.0

  • The Mission is part of the National Digital Communications Policy, 2018.
  • The vision of the Mission is to fast-track growth of digital communications infrastructure, bridge the digital divide, facilitate digital empowerment and inclusion, and provide affordable and universal access of broadband for all. 
  • Key achievements of NBM 1.0 include:
    • Expansion of Optical Fiber Cable (OFC) networks to 41.91 lakh kilometers by September 2024.
    • Growth in telecom towers to 8.17 lakh and broadband subscribers to 941 million.
    • Resolving major Right of Way (RoW) issues and streamlining processes through the “GatiShakti Sanchar” portal.
    • Introduction of the “Call Before u Dig” (CBuD) mobile app to protect underground telecom infrastructure.

Sanchar Saathi Mobile App 

  • The Sanchar Saathi Mobile App is a user-friendly platform designed to fortify telecom security and empower citizens.
  • Sanchar Saathi App is committed to maintaining the security, safety, and trustworthiness of telecom networks for everyone.
  • Key features include:
    • Chakshu - Reporting Suspected Fraud Communications (SFC): Users can report suspected calls and SMS using app and directly from mobile phone logs.
    • Know Mobile Connections in Your Name: Citizens can identify and manage all mobile connections issued in their name, ensuring no unauthorized usage.
    • Blocking Your Lost/ Stolen Mobile Handset: Lost or stolen mobile devices can be swiftly blocked, traced and recovered.
    • Know Mobile Handset Genuineness: The app offers an easy way to verify the authenticity of mobile handsets, ensuring users purchase genuine devices.
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