Recently, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) released draft rules to operationalise the Digital Bharat Nidhi.
Key points
Digital Bharat Nidhi would replace the erstwhile Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF). USOF is a pool of funds generated by a 5 per cent Universal Service Levy charged upon all the telecom fund operators on their Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR).
Funds collected under the DBN will be used to support universal service through promoting access to and delivery of telecommunication services in underserved rural, remote and urban areas; fund research and development of telecommunication services, technologies, etc. .
As per the Telecom Act, contributions made by telecom companies towards the Digital Bharat Nidhi will first be credited to the Consolidated Fund of India.
The Centre will deposit the collected funds to the DBN from time to time.
The Centre will appoint an “administrator” who will select “DBN implementers” through “bidding” or invitation of applications from eligible persons.
