What is UP govt’s ‘Project GANGA’ that aims to bring high-speed internet to 20 lakh homes in rural areas

The government has also set a target of around 50% participation of women among these digital entrepreneurs, aimed at promoting women-led entrepreneurship in rural areas.

Officials said DSPs selected will receive training, financial assistance, network infrastructure support and access to modern technology, enabling them to build sustainable digital service networks and expand internet access at the grassroots level.

Official speak

The MoU was signed in Lucknow in the presence of Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna, who said the initiative marks an important step toward strengthening digital infrastructure in the state while creating technology-driven employment opportunities.

“The availability of high-speed internet in rural areas will open new opportunities in online business, digital services, education and healthcare. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the government is working to ensure broadband connectivity reaches every village,” Khanna said.

He also highlighted the state’s efforts to support digital entrepreneurs through financial assistance. He informed that under a scheme launched in January 2024, youth are being provided interest-free and collateral-free loans of up to Rs 5 lakh, with over one lakh beneficiaries already availing the scheme, he said.

Digital highways as important as physical expressways

Manoj Kumar Singh, CEO of the State Transformation Commission, said that in the present era, digital infrastructure and “digital highways” are becoming as important as physical expressways in shaping development.

“This initiative will help reduce the digital divide and bring broadband connectivity and digital services to villages,” he said, adding that sectors such as telemedicine, online education, e-commerce, digital skilling and content creation will expand rapidly with improved connectivity.

Singh added that the project will particularly benefit remote and border districts such as Shravasti, Bahraich and Balrampur, where improved connectivity can create new economic opportunities.

Vynsley Fernandes, Director of Hinduja Global Solutions Ltd., said the initiative was inspired by the Ganga as a lifeline connecting millions, adding that youth and women empowerment are the two core pillars of the project.

Satya Prakash Singh, Chief Business Officer of One OTT Entertainment Limited, said the project aims to extend digital connectivity to remote and underserved areas, enabling expansion of digital services and creating new livelihood opportunities for rural youth.