TELECOM INITIATIVES IN INDIA

GS3 TECHNOLOGY 

Overview: Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia recently launched several telecom initiatives aimed at improving connectivity and security across India. These include the Sanchar Saathi Mobile App, the National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0, and Intra Circle Roaming at DBN-funded 4G sites. The government’s goal is to empower citizens with better access to telecom services and foster a digitally inclusive society.

Sanchar Saathi Mobile App: The app is designed to enhance telecom security by allowing users to report fraud, manage mobile connections, block lost devices, and verify handset authenticity. It targets over 90 crore smartphone users in India and is available on both Android and iOS platforms.

National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0:

• NBM 2.0 aims to connect 1.7 lakh villages by 2030, building on NBM 1.0’s success of establishing 8 lakh towers.
• The mission targets a minimum broadband speed of 100 Mbps and the expansion of connectivity to 90% of anchor institutions, aiming for a digitally inclusive future.

Intra Circle Roaming (ICR):

• The ICR initiative allows telecom providers to share infrastructure at DBN-funded 4G sites.
• This collaboration between BSNL, Airtel, and Reliance will improve connectivity for over 35,400 rural villages, providing seamless 4G services while reducing capital expenditure for operators.

Cybersecurity Measures:

• The Sanchar Saathi initiative has already disconnected 2.75 crore fraudulent connections and secured over 25 lakh lost devices.
• The International Incoming Spoofed Calls Prevention System has blocked 90% of spoofed calls, reducing cyber threats to citizens.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: These initiatives involve cooperation with ministries, state governments, and telecom service providers to streamline processes and improve the effectiveness of telecom regulations.

Achievements of NBM 1.0:

• Launched in 2019, NBM 1.0 expanded optical fibre networks and increased broadband subscribers to 941 million.
• The initiative resolved Right of Way issues and introduced the “Call Before u Dig” app to protect telecom infrastructure, bridging the digital divide and improving access to essential services.

Future Vision: The telecom initiatives align with the government’s vision for a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, aiming to create a connected, resilient, and sustainable India. The focus on technology and innovation is expected to drive socio-economic growth and empower citizens across the nation.