Project GANGA, the Uttar Pradesh government’s digital connectivity initiative, has launched broadband services under the GangaFiber brand in partnership with OneOTT Intertainment Ltd. (OIL), the broadband arm of Hinduja Global Solutions.
The programme has received more than 3,000 applications from aspiring Digital Service Providers (DSPs) since its launch in June. More than 600 shortlisted candidates have completed training conducted by OIL, with the first DSP networks being rolled out with financial support under the state’s CM-YUVA scheme.
The trained DSPs have the potential to connect up to 150,000 homes across Uttar Pradesh, according to the programme.
GangaFiber’s consumer broadband plans start at ₹399 per month, including taxes, for a 50 Mbps connection. Plans extend up to ₹1,179 per month for a 1 Gbps connection and include access to more than 100 television channels and 13 OTT platforms.
Manoj Kumar Singh, CEO, State Transformation Commission, Government of Uttar Pradesh, said the first networks going live marked an early test of the programme’s approach to expanding digital connectivity through local entrepreneurs.
“The Hon’ble Chief Minister’s vision is clear; like expressways, Uttar Pradesh should be the number one state in building digital highways. Digital is a necessity for every citizen, enabling services from education and healthcare to remote working opportunities,” Singh said.
“Project GANGA was conceived to turn that vision into action at the grassroots. The first networks going ‘live’ validates the model. Young people from our districts, especially women, supported through the CM-YUVA scheme, are now building businesses that bring high-speed connectivity to their neighbours and truly facilitating the digital inclusion mission,” he added.
Vynsley Fernandes, Whole-Time Director, HGS, and MD & CEO, OIL, said more than 600 potential DSPs had undergone training covering broadband technology, business, marketing and customer service.
“Our resolve for Project GANGA has always been simple reflecting the hon’ble Chief Ministers guidance – every village, every town, every home connected, and no citizen left behind,” Fernandes said.
“That resolve has moved from plan to reality with over 3,000 applications received and 600 potential DSPs having undergone extensive training in the business of broadband, technology, marketing & customer service,” he added.
Project GANGA was launched in June under the aegis of the State Transformation Commission. The programme is aimed at expanding broadband access through a network of local DSPs across the state.