Odisha is set to witness a major expansion of its digital network after the Central Government approved ₹3,384 crore under the BharatNet Phase III project. The initiative aims to improve broadband connectivity in rural areas and strengthen digital services across the state.
The project will upgrade all 6,799 gram panchayats with modern Internet Protocol Multi-Protocol Label Switching (IP MPLS) technology. High-speed Fiber to the Home (FTTH) connections will also be extended to villages over the next three years.
According to the state government, the expanded network will benefit more than 50,000 villages, improving access to online education, healthcare, digital governance and business opportunities in rural areas.
Under the implementation plan, every block will function as a Block Optical Fiber Connectivity Centre, while gram panchayats will serve as local data exchange centres to ensure reliable internet services.
The Odisha government also signed two key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). One agreement supports the implementation of the revised BharatNet programme, while the other, signed with C-DAC, will promote Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity and digital governance initiatives.
Officials said the project will accelerate Odisha’s digital transformation and bring faster, secure and technology-driven public services to people across the state.