!["Govt Exam Prep: SSC, UPSC, PYQs & Free Mock Tests for All Exams"](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjVsD2dnvPupa8YhoqnYHEiDHoBgqO4OQiLZ6lX1nTibVeO_mB89VMulwRS_p1NArgSJVIYJBCzTcq-M4DqgIfm-UMxK9J3gLt_9-UwxICwEks2vEnKVA4Tkbsj0942FBYQD-vT8hRqKQ8ao8MkR1cfje5BlEKM-B7JcCNxDnVFaQmkewSdJCfNojcpGE0=s150 ""Govt Exam Prep: SSC, UPSC, PYQs & Free Mock Tests for All Exams"")
Telecommunications (Administration of Digital Bharat Nidhi) Rules, 2024
The Department of Telecommunications has notified rules to operationalize the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. These rules aim to promote telecom services in underserved areas and encourage the adoption of next-gen telecom technologies and sustainable practices.
About Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN):
- Established under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, to replace the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF).
- DBN funds telecom schemes in underserved rural and remote areas at affordable prices.
- The money collected for DBN is first credited to the Consolidated Fund of India and may be transferred to DBN upon parliamentary approval.
Key Highlights of the Rules:
- Criteria for Schemes and Projects: DBN will fund projects in underserved areas, support startups, and promote sustainable technologies.
- Network Sharing: Networks established under DBN should be shared openly and on a non-discriminatory basis.
- Fund Allocation Process:
- Bidding: To support telecom services in underserved areas.
- Selection by Application: To support R&D for emerging telecom technologies through co-funding or Viability Gap Funding (VGF).
Tags: Digital Bharat Nidhi, Telecommunications Act, 2023