TELECOMMUNICATIONS (ADMINISTRATION OF DIGITAL BHARAT NIDHI) RULES, 2024

Source: PIB

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Context

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced the ‘Telecommunications (Administration of Digital Bharat Nidhi) Rules, 2024’.

Details

About

• It is a key regulation aimed at enhancing the management and implementation of the Digital Bharat Nidhi initiative.
• The Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) was established under Section 24(1) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
• It represents a rebranding of the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), which was initially created under the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885.
• The rules and the act are guided by the principles of inclusion (Samavesh), security (Suraksha), growth (Vriddhi), and responsiveness (Tvarit), all aimed at realizing the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

Key Provisions of the Digital Bharat Nidhi Rules, 2024

• Administrator's Role and Responsibility:
• He shall oversee the implementation and administration of DBN.
• He shall be responsible for the selection and implementation of the schemes and projects to be drawn upon the funds that meet the objectives of the fund.
• Criteria for Funding Projects:
• Projects should provide telecommunication services, which include but are not limited to mobile and broadband, and purchase of necessary equipment.
• Fund prefers projects contributing to telecom security, minimizing disparity in access and prices, and deploying cutting-edge telecom technologies in unserved areas.
• Focus on Marginalized Communities: The thrust area would also be toward unserved and un-served areas, especially for the marginalized communities such as women, persons with disabilities, and economically and socially backward classes.
• Promotion of Innovation and Sustainability: Support the commercialization of indigenously developed technologies, the creation of regulatory sandboxes, the making of national standards, and the promotion of sustainable green technologies that will be in spirit with the Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• Principles for Non-Discriminatory Access to Networks: Recipients of DBN funding will keep the network open to all on an open and non-discriminatory basis.

Must Read Articles:

Digital Bharat Nidhi

USOF

India Telecom Sector

Telecommunication Act

Sources:

PIB

 

PRACTICE QUESTION Q: Critically analyze the role of the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) rules, 2024, in bridging the digital divide in India. Discuss how the rebranding of the Universal Service Obligation Fund aligns with the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.  (250 Words)