The work will likely to begin later this year after spectrum is allocated through the proposed e-auction. DoT will use Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) to fund the ambitious project that would provide e-governance and data services in rural areas, said an official statement.

To accomplish its wireless broadband plan, DoT has already held discussions with major technology providers, telecom service providers (TSPs) and Internet service providers (ISPs) to formalise the modalities of tender procedures, specification and benchmark settings.

The scheme envisages that the TSPs may utilise the existing passive and core infrastructure available with them. Consultants for the purpose have already been appointed. Requirements of the Department of Information Technology (DIT) and other user ministries like the Human Resource Development, Health, Panchayati Raj and Home Affairs are being firmed up so that block-wise villages can be prioritised and requisite infrastructure be kept ready.

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited is providing broadband services to 1,000 out of over 6,000 blocks. About 50,000 of the proposed 1-lakh common service centres would be covered by the BSNL broadband service. The DoT is likely to cover the remaining blocks and all the CSCs. Besides, the department is also likely to support wireline broadband by USOF wherever feasible.