Department of Telecommunications under the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) framework has signed an agreement with the Government of Andhra Pradesh, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited, Andhra Pradesh BharatNet Infrastructure Limited, and Andhra Pradesh State FiberNet Limited for implementation of the Amended BharatNet Programme in the state.

The agreement aims to strengthen rural digital infrastructure and expand broadband connectivity across Andhra Pradesh under the state-led model. The programme will cover 13,426 Gram Panchayats, including the upgradation of 1,692 Phase-I Gram Panchayats, coverage of 11,254 Phase-II Gram Panchayats, and connectivity for 480 newly created Gram Panchayats. Additionally, 3,942 villages will receive connectivity on a demand basis to improve last-mile access.

The Government of India has approved financial support of Rs 2,432 crore for the project in Andhra Pradesh. The initiative is expected to enable over five lakh rural home fibre connections and improve access to digital services such as e-governance, online education, telemedicine, digital payments, and other citizen-centric services in rural areas.

The Amended BharatNet Programme was approved by the Union Cabinet in August 2023 to upgrade, expand, and modernise broadband connectivity infrastructure across villages and Gram Panchayats in India.