The project for saturation of 4G mobile services in uncovered villages across the country was approved on 27.07.2022 at a total cost of Rs. 26,316 crore.  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 or 3G connectivity shall be upgraded to 4G. The project will be executed by M/s Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) using Atmanirbhar Bharat’s 4G technology stack and will be funded through Universal Service Obligation Fund.  

Further, the revised scope for saturation of 4G mobile services now includes 23,257 new sites and 947 upgrade sites, where locations currently having only 2G or 3G connectivity shall be upgraded to 4G services.