Bhubaneswar: In a bid to further strengthen digital infrastructure in Odisha, the state government on Wednesday signed two key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to accelerate connectivity and technology-driven governance.

The first MoU is a tripartite agreement among Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), Odisha’s Department of Electronics and IT, the Centre’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and BSNL for the effective rollout of the revamped BharatNet programme in the state.

The second MoU was signed between the state’s Electronics and IT Department and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) to enhance collaboration in emerging technologies, research, and digital governance.

Speaking on the occasion, Electronics and IT Minister Mukesh Mahaling said the state will upgrade 6,799 gram panchayats with IP MPLS technology using ring topology under the BharatNet Phase-III project. The initiative aims to extend high-speed Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) connectivity to rural areas.

The ambitious project, part of the Government of India’s Digital India mission, will be implemented with an estimated investment of ₹3,384 crore and is expected to be completed within three years.

Once completed, internet connectivity will reach over 50,000 villages, significantly improving access to education, healthcare, e-governance, and digital economic services at the grassroots level.

As per the plan, each block will have a Block Optical Fiber Connectivity Centre linked to Panchayat-level Optical Fiber Centres. From there, FTTH connections will be extended directly to households. Additionally, both block and gram panchayat levels will be developed as data exchange centres to ensure seamless and reliable connectivity across the state.