In a significant development, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fibre Connection (KLI-SOFC) project during his visit to Kavaratti, Lakshadweep. The project, part of a comprehensive initiative covering diverse sectors, is set to revolutionize communication infrastructure in the region.
Paradigm Shift in Communication Infrastructure
The KLI-SOFC project marks a milestone for Lakshadweep as it connects the islands through a dedicated submarine optic fibre cable for the first time since independence. The Prime Minister highlighted the project’s potential, stating it will lead to a paradigm shift, enabling faster and more reliable internet services, telemedicine, e-governance, educational initiatives, digital banking, and digital literacy.
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Project Details and Funding
The project, funded by the Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF) under the Department of Telecommunications, involves a submarine cable link extending from Kochi to eleven Lakshadweep Islands. Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) executed the project, with M/s NEC Corporation India Pvt Ltd awarded the work through a global open tendering process.
Key Highlights of KLI Project:
- Total link distance: 1,868 kilometers
- Total project cost: Rs 1072 crore plus taxes
Benefits and Future Implications
The KLI-SOFC project is expected to significantly increase internet speed in Lakshadweep, unlocking new possibilities and opportunities. Prime Minister Modi assured the residents that this initiative will enhance facilities such as government services, medical treatment, education, and digital banking. The project aligns with the objective of ‘Digital India’ and the ‘National Broadband Mission,’ fostering e-governance, tourism, education, health, commerce, and industries.
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A Step Towards ‘Digital India’
The Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fibre Connection project impact extends beyond faster internet, aiming to accelerate overall social and economic development in Lakshadweep. It will provide high-speed wireline broadband connectivity, benefiting the population and supporting telecom service providers in strengthening their services in the region.
As Lakshadweep embarks on this new era of enhanced connectivity, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that the region will play a pivotal role in the creation of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India).
Administrator of UT of Lakshadweep, Shri Praful Patel, was present on the occasion among others.
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