BharatNet Phase III to Extend Subsidised Broadband to 1.5 Crore Rural Homes
The Government of India is set to launch BharatNet Phase III, an ambitious expansion of its rural broadband network that aims to deliver subsidised internet connectivity to 1.5 crore rural households. With a proposed investment of ₹1.4 lakh crore (approximately USD 18 billion), this phase will focus on extending optical fibre coverage, upgrading infrastructure, and enhancing last-mile digital access across India’s hinterland.
Massive Expansion to Boost Rural Connectivity
According to Minister of State for Telecom Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, BharatNet Phase III will connect 40,000 new Gram Panchayats, while maintaining and upgrading infrastructure at 2.18 lakh existing village nodes. The initiative was formally announced during the India Mobile Congress 2025, signalling the government’s commitment to digital inclusion and rural development through scalable connectivity.
This makes BharatNet the largest rural broadband programme in the world, as it moves into its third and most expansive phase.
India Leads in Affordable Internet and 5G Reach
The minister also highlighted that India offers the lowest data tariffs globally, supporting rapid digital adoption even in low-income areas. He pointed out the successful deployment of 4.7 lakh 5G sites in just over two years, covering 99.6% of districts. This 5G infrastructure will support BharatNet’s last-mile broadband delivery and make digital services more accessible to rural communities.
Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal further emphasized the strategic role of telecom in India’s economic growth, national security, and innovation ecosystem, including 6G research and the empowerment of startups through the Telecom Technology Development Fund.
Digital Equity and Empowerment at the Core
BharatNet Phase III is not merely a connectivity project—it is designed to enable economic participation and digital citizenship. The subsidised broadband will provide access to:
- e-Education
- Telemedicine
- e-Governance services
- Digital commerce platforms
It complements other flagship initiatives like the National Broadband Mission and the PM Digital Literacy Campaign (PMGDISHA), ensuring that rural populations are equipped to thrive in a digital economy.
Key Highlights of BharatNet Phase III
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment | ₹1.4 lakh crore (USD 18 billion) |
| Coverage | 40,000 new Panchayats + maintenance of 2.18 lakh nodes |
| Reach | 1.5 crore rural households |
| 5G Infrastructure | 4.7 lakh sites, 99.6% district coverage |
| Focus Areas | Affordability, last-mile connectivity, digital inclusion |
