The push for full saturation of 4G connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has taken center stage with Chief Secretary Atal Duloo issuing clear directions to expedite the completion of the project. In a recent meeting, Duloo emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts among stakeholders, particularly the service providers, to ensure that the remaining uncovered areas in remote and difficult regions are swiftly connected to 4G mobile services.
In today’s digital age, access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity, particularly in regions like J&K, where connectivity can unlock vast potential for economic growth, social inclusion, and governance reforms. The saturation of 4G in the Union Territory, especially in its remote and difficult-to-reach areas, has become a top priority for the government, with significant implications for the region’s development.
Duloo’s directive to service providers is both timely and crucial. He highlighted the need for urgency, stating that “there is no scope for any leniency,” and that work on all handed-over sites must be completed without delay.
This is particularly important as several villages in J&K still lack reliable mobile services, leaving them disconnected from essential digital services, including education, healthcare, and e-governance initiatives.
The objective of the project, as articulated by Duloo, is to ensure that even the most remote and difficult-to-reach areas of J&K have access to 4G mobile services. This is a pivotal step towards bridging the digital divide in the region, ensuring that every citizen, irrespective of their location, has access to high-speed internet. For rural communities, this will mean improved access to information, educational resources, healthcare services, and government schemes delivered digitally.
Enhanced connectivity will also be a significant driver for economic growth. The expansion of 4G services will pave the way for local businesses to participate in the digital economy, creating opportunities for e-commerce, remote work, and access to new markets. Moreover, with high-speed internet, J&K’s tourism sector can also flourish, allowing businesses to tap into online booking platforms and digital marketing.
Duloo’s focus on coordination and prioritization of work is vital. The task of bringing 4G connectivity to all parts of J&K, particularly in its challenging terrain, requires a concerted and well-coordinated effort. The Chief Secretary’s insistence that service providers clear existing pendency and prioritize uncovered areas reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring no community is left behind.
