The Telecom Commission is likely to approve the establishment of greenfield 2G networks in regions close to the Chinese and Bangladesh borders. The project is expected to cost government Rs 71.03 billion.
The government plans to cover about 8,621 strategically located villages across the northeast under the project. The extension of telecom services in these uncovered regions is expected to mobile-based surveillance for ensuring the country?s security.
The Universal Services Obligation Fund, which will fund the project, is expected to shortly invite bids from operators for establishing about 6,700 base stations in these regions.
