BSNL Taps ITI for ₹1,901 Cr BharatNet Project in Northeast

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) has awarded a major contract worth ₹1,901.1 crore to ITI Ltd, a fellow public sector enterprise, for the implementation of the Amended BharatNet Programme across Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Manipur.

According to sources familiar with the development, the agreement was formally signed on Thursday.

Under the contract, ITI Ltd will oversee the creation, upgradation, and comprehensive operation and maintenance of network infrastructure in the three Northeastern states. The initiative is part of the government's broader mission to enhance rural broadband connectivity and reduce the digital divide in remote and underserved regions.

BSNL, acting on behalf of the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), had launched the bidding process on February 15, 2024, to appoint a Project Implementation Agency (PIA). Following a competitive evaluation, ITI Ltd was selected for a 10-year implementation and maintenance tenure.

This project marks a critical step in advancing digital inclusion and strengthening telecom infrastructure in the Northeast.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.