The union cabinet has given its approval for implementing a comprehensive telecom development plan for the North-Eastern Region (NER). The implementation of the plan is likely to entail an investment of Rs 53.36 billion. Under the plan, 2G network would be set up in identified uncovered areas and along the national highways in the North East Region.

At present, there are about 43,200 villages in this region. Of this, 9,190 (21 per cent) do not have any mobile connectivity. The cabinet has approved covering 8,621 villages by deployment of 6,673 towers. Under the plan, network connectivity will also be provided along the national highways through 321 mobile towers.

The plan will be financed through the Universal Service Obligation Fund, which will support capital and operational expenditure for a period of 5 years. The government is likely to soon float tenders to involve telecom companies in the setting up of network infrastructure.