National Broadband Mission: A Digital Future

National Broadband Mission (NBM): Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia recently introduced a suite of telecom initiatives to enhance connectivity and security nationwide. These include the Sanchar Saathi Mobile App, National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0, and Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) at DBN-funded 4G sites. The government’s vision is to empower citizens by fostering a digitally inclusive society and improving access to telecom services.

Sanchar Saathi Mobile App

This app focuses on strengthening telecom security. Its features include:

• Reporting suspected fraud.
• Managing multiple mobile connections.
• Blocking lost devices.
• Verifying handset authenticity.

Available for both Android and iOS, the app is designed to serve India’s 90 crore smartphone users effectively.

National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0

NBM 2.0 builds on the success of its predecessor with ambitious goals:

• Connecting 1.7 lakh villages by 2030.
• Achieving a minimum broadband speed of 100 Mbps.
• Expanding coverage to 90% of anchor institutions.

With 8 lakh towers already deployed under NBM 1.0, the mission envisions bridging the digital divide for a more inclusive India.

Intra Circle Roaming (ICR)

The ICR initiative enables telecom operators like BSNL, Airtel, and Reliance to share infrastructure at DBN-funded 4G sites. This collaboration:

• Enhances connectivity in over 35,400 rural villages.
• Reduces capital expenditure for operators.
• Delivers seamless 4G services to underserved regions.

Cybersecurity Enhancements

The Sanchar Saathi initiative has bolstered cyber safety by:

• Disconnecting 2.75 crore fraudulent connections.
• Securing 25 lakh lost devices.
• Blocking 90% of spoofed international incoming calls through advanced systems.

These measures significantly mitigate cyber threats to citizens.

Collaborative Approach

The success of these initiatives hinges on collaboration with key stakeholders, including:

• Government ministries.
• State authorities.
• Telecom service providers.

This integrated effort ensures streamlined processes and effective implementation of new telecom policies.

Achievements of NBM 1.0

Since its inception in 2019, NBM 1.0 has achieved:

• Expansion of optical fibre networks.
• Growth in broadband subscribers to 941 million.
• Resolution of Right of Way issues.
• Introduction of the “Call Before u Dig” app to safeguard telecom infrastructure.

These efforts have been instrumental in bridging the digital divide and providing access to essential services.

Vision for the Future

These initiatives align with the government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, aiming to create a digitally connected, resilient, and sustainable India. By leveraging technology and innovation, the country is poised to drive socio-economic growth and empower its citizens.