Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has launched the Kerala Fibre Optical Network (KFON) with which the government intends to provide high-speed internet connectivity for all households in the state.
100 houses initially
Kerala has become the first state in the country to have its own internet service provider.
Through this project the state will provide internet access to 100 houses in each assembly constituency of the state.
Objective
The objective is to get rid of the digital divide by ensuring internet access for all.
KFON has installed IT infrastructure capable of setting up 40 lakh internet connections across the state.
Speed
Internet speeds will be starting at 20 mbps and consumers can avail connections at higher speeds based on individual requirements.
Internet a basic right
CM Vijayan said that Kerala is the only state in the country which has made the right to access the internet a basic right.
“The state is implementing KFON to ensure that the internet as a basic right does not remain on paper.
The state is now providing basic infrastructure to take high-speed internet to all people,” he said.
Below the poverty line (BPL)
Through KFON, families below the poverty line (BPL) will be able to access the internet free of cost.
Coverage so far
So far KFON connection has been given to 17,412 government offices and 2,105 households.
A cable network has already been laid to ensure connection for 9,000 houses.
Push after pandemic
The CM commented on the new work culture that has emerged after the Covid-19 pandemic, in which work from home emerged as the predominant mode of work.
“Work from home, work near home and work away from home have gained popularity.
If our youths have to benefit from these emerging working styles, there should be better internet connectivity across the state. The KFON is meant to ensure that facility,” he said.
Commercial connections
The initial phase of the project will conclude by August 2023 after which it will be expanded to setting up commercial connections.
It is estimated that 2,50,000 commercial connections will be set up in the first year.
