The Indian Department of Telecom (DoT) and the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) have recently come together to form a Broadband Readiness Index (BRI) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This innovative index will gauge the health of the digital infrastructure in Indian States and Union Territories (UT), while also evaluating other connected factors. The fundamental goal is assisting states in determining how best to allocate their investment into Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) programmes.
The Purpose and Benefits of BRI
Broadband Readiness Index (BRI) is not merely a tool to assess the state of digital infrastructure but also a driver fostering healthy competition among federal states. This competitive spirit will encourage mutual learning among the states while conjointly striving towards the common goal of digital inclusion and development across the country.
National Digital Communication Policy (NDCP) 2018 is the body acknowledging the necessity of creating a robust digital communications infrastructure. It underscores the importance of leveraging underutilized assets in the broadcasting and power sectors. The collaborative models also encourages partnerships between the state, local bodies, and private sector enabling an all-inclusive progress in the digital field.
Components of the BRI
The Broadband Readiness Index has two main components. The first focuses on infrastructural development, keeping a check on the progressive growth of the digital landscape on a state and UT level.
The second segment is concerned with demand-side factors like the percentage of households having access to computers or laptops equipped with internet connections and the percentage of households with a fixed broadband connection. These parameters will give an insight into the consumer demands and usability of the digital resources provided under the ICT programmes.
Survey Schedule and Future Implications
To maintain a timely check on the progress and effectiveness of this initiative, the primary survey of BRI will be conducted annually until the year 2022. The findings from these annual surveys will form the groundwork for the new digital communication policy, set to be unveiled in 2022.
BRI Performance Indicators
| Performance Indicator | Description |
|---|---|
| Digital Infrastructure Status | Assesses the current state of digital infrastructure in states and UTs |
| Investment Allocation Guidance | Helps states to decide on ICT programme investments |
| Promotion of Competitive Federalism | Encourages mutual learning and participation among states towards digital inclusion |
The Role of BRI in Future Digital Communication Policy
The Broadband Readiness Index, with its comprehensive evaluation methods, will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of digital communication in India. Not only will it help realize the areas needing more focus and investment, but it will also aid in creating a roadmap for enhancing digital inclusion and development throughout the nation. The data collected through the annual surveys till 2022 will serve as valuable inputs into the formulation of the subsequent digital communication policy.
Last Modified: February 6, 2024