Maharashtra Government Overhauls Broadband Framework to Accelerate National Mission 2.0
The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step towards strengthening digital infrastructure by issuing a Government Resolution (GR) on Wednesday. This resolution restructures the state broadband committee (SBC) and establishes district-level telecommunication committees to ensure effective implementation of the National Broadband Mission 2.0 (NBM 2.0) across the state.
Replacing Outdated Systems with Enhanced Monitoring
The new GR replaces the previous framework established in 2020, introducing a more structured and multi-tier monitoring mechanism designed to improve execution efficiency under NBM 2.0. This move aligns with the vision document of NBM 2.0, which outlines revised institutional mechanisms aimed at accelerating broadband expansion and fortifying digital infrastructure between 2025 and 2030.
Officials emphasized that the new framework is intended to create a more coordinated and accountable system to meet ambitious connectivity targets. They stated, "The new framework is aimed at creating a more coordinated and accountable system to meet ambitious connectivity targets."
Reconstituted State Broadband Committee and Its Mandate
As per the GR, the chief secretary will chair the reconstituted SBC. The committee will include senior officials from key departments such as information technology, urban development, public works, and forest and environment. Representatives from major telecom stakeholders, including BSNL, the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), and the Internet Service Providers Association of India (ISPAI), will participate as special invitees.
Key objectives of the SBC include facilitating the implementation of central guidelines, accelerating digital connectivity for socio-economic development, and ensuring compliance with provisions of the Telecommunications Act, 2023, including Right of Way (RoW) rules.
Officials added, "The SBC will also focus on addressing issues related to digital communications infrastructure, enabling the integration of common telecom ducts in state infrastructure projects, and resolving policy-level bottlenecks. The committee has been mandated to monitor and evaluate mission progress through reviews."
Grassroots Implementation Through District-Level Committees
At the grassroots level, district and municipal telecommunications committees will be constituted under the chairmanship of district collectors. These panels will conduct monthly reviews of broadband rollout, oversee implementation progress, and submit reports to the state-level committee.
Authorities highlighted that the creation of district-level bodies is expected to strengthen on-ground coordination among local authorities, police, public works departments, and technical agencies. This initiative is anticipated to help remove bottlenecks in telecom infrastructure deployment, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
The restructuring aims to foster better collaboration and accountability, ensuring that Maharashtra stays on track to achieve its digital connectivity goals under NBM 2.0, ultimately driving socio-economic growth across the state.
