Archive · 6 Dec 2025
Andhra Pradesh Approves 2,428 Crore BharatNet Upgrade
The Andhra Pradesh government has approved a big plan to improve internet access in rural areas.
They will spend Rs 2,428 crore to upgrade the BharatNet Programme, which aims to bring high-speed internet to villages.
A new company called Andhra Pradesh BharatNet Infrastructure Limited (APBIL) will manage this project.
The upgrade will connect more villages and make the internet network more reliable.
This will help with online education, healthcare, and government services in rural areas.
The total cost for this programme across India is Rs 1.39 trillion, with Rs 42,847 crore for setting up the infrastructure and Rs 48,717 crore for maintaining it over 10 years.
Andhra Pradesh government approved Rs 2,428 crore for BharatNet Programme upgrade
New SPV, Andhra Pradesh BharatNet Infrastructure Limited (APBIL), to be established for implementation
Project aims to upgrade existing network and extend connectivity to 480 gram panchayats
Unified network management to reduce fragmentation and enhance reliability
Funding comes from Digital Bharat Nidhi, part of India's largest digital infrastructure programme
- Who
- Andhra Pradesh state government and Department of Telecommunications (DoT)
- What
- Approval of Rs 2,428 crore for BharatNet Programme upgrade
- When
- After Union government's in-principle approval
- Where
- Andhra Pradesh, India
- Why
- To expand and upgrade rural broadband infrastructure, deliver high-speed connectivity to gram panchayats and unconnected villages
- Funding Amount
- Rs 2,428 crore
- Programme
- Amended BharatNet Programme (ABP)
- Funding Source
- Digital Bharat Nidhi
- SPV
- Andhra Pradesh BharatNet Infrastructure Limited (APBIL)
- Implementation Model
- Design-Build-Operate-Maintain
- Scope
- Upgrade existing network, extend connectivity to 480 gram panchayats, unify network management
- Total Programme Outlay
- Rs 1.39 trillion
- Capital Expenditure
- Rs 42,847 crore
- Operating Costs
- Rs 48,717 crore (over 10 years)