Daily Current Affairs : 9-July-2024

The Department of Telecommunication (DoT) has added the draft Telecommunications (Digital Bharat Nidhi) Rules, 2024, under Sections 26 and 56 of the Telecommunication Act, 2023. These rules aim to ensure better telecom infrastructure throughout India, especially in underserved and remote areas. The Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) is set to replace the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), which was previously funded through a 5% levy on telecom operators’ Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR).

What is the Digital Bharat Nidhi?

The Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) is a new initiative designed to address the challenges of expanding telecommunications infrastructure in areas where private companies often face difficulties due to low profitability. It will provide funding and resources to improve telecom services in these regions, ensuring that even the most remote areas have access to better connectivity.

Key components of DBN:

  • Replacement of USOF: DBN replaces the older USOF, which was funded by a levy on telecom operators.
  • Focus on underserved areas: The primary aim of DBN is to enhance telecom networks in regions with limited or no connectivity.
  • Support for R&D and pilot projects: Funds from DBN will also be used for research and development (R&D) in telecom and support pilot projects focused on exploring new technologies.

Objectives and Benefits of DBN

The main objectives of DBN are to:

  • Expand telecom networks in areas that are not profitable for private operators.
  • Promote universal service by ensuring that all regions, regardless of economic viability, are connected.
  • Encourage innovation through support for research and development in the telecom sector.
  • Improve connectivity by funding pilot projects and enhancing infrastructure.

Management and Implementation of DBN

The DBN will be managed by an administrator, who will be responsible for selecting implementers through a transparent bidding process. This approach ensures that network expansion and infrastructure improvements are carried out efficiently and without discrimination. One of the key principles of DBN is to promote non-discriminatory network sharing, ensuring that once infrastructure is developed, it can be shared fairly among telecom providers.

Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) Rules, 2024: What You Should Know
Courtesy: ias express

Important Points:

Certainly! Here are the key bullet points based on the essay:

  • Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) Rules, 2024:
  • Introduced by the Department of Telecommunication (DoT) under Sections 26 and 56 of the Telecommunication Act, 2023.
  • Aims to improve telecom infrastructure, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
  • Replacement of USOF:
  • DBN replaces the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), which was funded through a 5% levy on telecom operators’ Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR).
  • Key Features of DBN:
  • Focus on expanding telecom networks in regions with limited or no connectivity.
  • Provides funds for research and development (R&D) in the telecom sector.
  • Supports pilot projects aimed at exploring new technologies.
  • Objectives of DBN:
  • Expand telecom networks in unprofitable areas for private operators.
  • Ensure universal service by connecting all regions, regardless of economic viability.
  • Encourage innovation through R&D support in telecom.
  • Improve connectivity by funding pilot projects and enhancing infrastructure.
  • Management and Implementation:
  • DBN will be managed by an administrator.
  • Implementers will be selected through a transparent bidding process.
  • Promotes non-discriminatory network sharing among telecom providers once infrastructure is developed.
  • Impact of DBN:
  • Expected to bridge the digital divide in India.
  • Enhances inclusive and accessible telecom services for all citizens.

Why In News

The Department of Telecommunication (DoT) has introduced the draft Telecommunications (Digital Bharat Nidhi) Rules, 2024, under Sections 26 and 56 of the Telecommunication Act, 2023. These rules are a significant step towards modernizing India’s telecom sector and ensuring that underserved regions receive the necessary infrastructure for enhanced connectivity and digital inclusion.

MCQs about Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) Rules, 2024

  1. What is the main goal of the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) as introduced by the Department of Telecommunication (DoT)?
    A. To increase telecom taxes
    B. To expand telecom networks in underserved areas
    C. To promote private telecom companies
    D. To regulate telecom tariffs across the country
  2. What does the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) replace in the Indian telecom system?
    A. Telecom infrastructure maintenance fund
    B. Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF)
    C. Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
    D. Telecom Subsidy Fund
  3. Which of the following is NOT one of the key features of the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN)?
    A. Providing funding for telecom research and development (R&D)
    B. Encouraging innovation in telecom technologies
    C. Ensuring that all regions are connected regardless of profitability
    D. Imposing higher taxes on telecom operators
  4. How will the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) be managed and implemented?
    A. It will be managed by private telecom companies
    B. The DBN funds will be allocated by the central government only
    C. An administrator will select implementers through a transparent bidding process
    D. It will be managed by a committee of telecom experts

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