Guwahati: The Union Cabinet has approved a project for the saturation of 4G mobile services in uncovered villages across the country at a total cost of Rs. 26,316 crores.

The project will provide 4G mobile services in 24,680 uncovered villages in remote and difficult areas. The project has a provision to include 20% additional villages on account of rehabilitation, new settlements, withdrawal of services by existing operators etc. In addition, 6,279 villages having only 2G/3G connectivity shall be upgraded to 4G.

The project will be executed by BSNL using Atmanirbhar Bharat’s 4G technology stack and will be funded through Universal Service Obligation Fund. The project cost of Rs. 26,316 Cr includes CAPEX and 5-year opex.

BSNL is already in process of deployment of the Atmanirbhar 4G technology stack, which will be deployed in this project as well.

A government statement said the project is a significant step towards realizing the government's vision of providing mobile connectivity in rural areas. "This project will promote the delivery of various e-governance services, banking services, telemedicine, tele-education, etc. through mobile broadband and generate employment in rural areas," the statement said.