More than 1,091 revenue villages in Odisha remain without mobile connectivity, with Rayagada facing the most significant challenges. Recent data presented in Parliament highlights the persistent gaps in digital infrastructure across the state, particularly affecting its tribal areas.
Despite various government initiatives aimed at enhancing digital infrastructure, these villages continue to struggle with connectivity issues. According to information provided by Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar in response to a question from MP Manas Ranjan Mangaraj in the Rajya Sabha, Odisha comprises 51,176 revenue villages, yet 1,091 still lack mobile service.
The connectivity issues are particularly severe in southern Odisha. Rayagada has the highest number of uncovered villages at 129, followed by Kandhamal with 112, Malkangiri at 103, Kalahandi with 92, Koraput at 85, and Ganjam with 80. The challenging terrain and significant tribal populations in these districts complicate efforts to improve telecom infrastructure.
The absence of reliable mobile connectivity affects more than just communication; it creates barriers to accessing digital education, healthcare, banking services, and government welfare programs. In some remote areas, residents have to scale hills or find elevated spots just to get a mobile signal, which is crucial in emergencies requiring services like ambulances or police assistance.
Students are particularly disadvantaged, as poor or non-existent mobile networks hinder their ability to participate in online classes, utilize digital learning tools, apply for competitive exams, and access skill development resources. Additionally, the lack of connectivity impacts telemedicine, e-Hospital services, UPI payments, and various online government services, including pensions, scholarships, Aadhaar-related services, and agricultural support.
In response to these challenges, the Central government has informed Parliament that several initiatives are in progress to enhance telecom coverage in underserved areas. These efforts are backed by funding from the Digital Bharat Nidhi and include projects targeting Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected areas, the Aspirational District Scheme, and a nationwide 4G saturation initiative.
Telecom providers are also working on their own to expand coverage in these remaining uncovered regions. However, no specific timeline has been provided for when all villages in Odisha can expect to gain mobile connectivity.
This recent parliamentary report underscores the reality that, despite considerable investments in digital infrastructure through the Digital India initiative, a substantial portion of rural Odisha, especially its remote and tribal districts, remains disconnected from vital mobile services, restricting economic development and access to increasingly digital public services.
