NOV 30:Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Transport, Youth Services & Sports (YSS), and Information Technology, Shri Satish Sharma, chaired an important review meeting with the Deputy Director General of the National Broadband Mission (NBM), focusing on accelerating digital infrastructure development across Jammu & Kashmir. The session underscored the Government’s commitment to ensuring that every household, village, and institution in the Union Territory has access to fast, reliable, and affordable internet services.
During the meeting, the Minister stressed the need to expedite the rollout of broadband networks under the National Broadband Mission, highlighting that digital connectivity is no longer a luxury but a fundamental requirement for education, governance, business, and public services. He noted that enhanced broadband availability is key to unlocking new economic opportunities and improving the efficiency of government delivery systems.
Shri Sharma emphasized the importance of last-mile connectivity, particularly in remote and hilly regions where digital penetration remains limited. He directed departments and implementing agencies to identify gaps, remove logistical barriers, and prioritize areas that still lack basic digital access. Such efforts, he said, are essential to bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable development across the UT.
A major part of the discussion revolved around streamlining Right of Way (RoW) permissions. The Minister called for a more coordinated and time-bound approach between departments, telecom service providers, and local authorities to avoid delays in fiber-laying and infrastructure installation. Simplifying procedures, he added, would significantly speed up project execution and improve service delivery.
He also highlighted the importance of collaborative planning between the IT Department, NBM authorities, district administrations, and private telecom operators. Effective coordination, he noted, is crucial for achieving universal digital access and building a digitally empowered society.
Reaffirming the Government’s focus on digital governance, Minister Sharma stated that enhanced broadband connectivity will support e-services, digital literacy, online education, entrepreneurship, and youth development, ultimately contributing to the UT’s progress.
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