Odisha’s Digital Divide: 2,603 Villages Still Without Mobile Network Coverage

Odisha, a state known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, is facing a significant digital divide. A recent ministry report has revealed that 2,603 villages across 167 blocks in the state remain without any mobile network coverage. Additionally, 10 panchayats are yet to receive broadband connectivity, highlighting the urgent need for infrastructure development in remote and rural areas.

In today’s era of digital transformation, mobile and broadband connectivity have become essential for education, healthcare, business, and governance. However, a large portion of Odisha’s rural population still lacks access to these basic services. The report sheds light on the severity of the situation, with several districts significantly affected.

The worst-affected districts in terms of mobile network unavailability are:

• Kandhamal – 375 villages without mobile network
• Rayagada – 274 villages
• Gajapati – 241 villages
• Koraput – 223 villages
• Malkangiri – 216 villages
• Kalahandi – 203 villages
• Nayagarh – 184 villages

These figures highlight the digital disparity in Odisha’s tribal and remote districts. The geographical challenges, dense forests, and difficult terrain in these regions contribute to the slow expansion of network services.

While some districts struggle with poor mobile network access, others have made remarkable progress. The report identifies Balasore, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri as the top three districts with the best mobile connectivity:

• Balasore – Only one village lacks mobile network coverage.
• Jagatsinghpur – Only two villages remain unconnected.
• Puri – Only three villages without a network.

These districts serve as examples of how focused infrastructure development and telecom expansion can improve digital connectivity.

The lack of mobile network and broadband connectivity affects several crucial aspects of life in rural Odisha:

1. Education

With the rise of digital learning platforms, online classes, and e-libraries, connectivity is a necessity for students. Villages without mobile networks remain cut off from educational opportunities, widening the urban-rural knowledge gap.

2. Healthcare

Telemedicine and online health consultations have become essential, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Without network access, rural populations are deprived of vital healthcare services that could otherwise be accessible through mobile and broadband networks.

3. Economic Growth & Employment

Mobile connectivity plays a key role in economic development. Digital banking, online markets, and remote job opportunities are inaccessible to people in villages without network services, limiting their economic growth and livelihood options.

4. Emergency Communication

During natural disasters like cyclones and floods—common in Odisha—mobile networks serve as lifelines. Villages without connectivity remain vulnerable, unable to receive timely warnings or seek emergency assistance.

To bridge this digital gap, a multi-pronged approach is necessary:

1. Expansion of Telecom Infrastructure

The government, in partnership with telecom companies, must expedite the installation of mobile towers in remote areas. Special focus should be given to the worst-affected districts.

2. Strengthening Broadband Connectivity

Apart from mobile networks, ensuring broadband access in panchayats can help bring e-governance, tele-education, and digital banking services to remote villages.

3. Incentivizing Private Players

Providing incentives to telecom companies for investing in rural connectivity can accelerate mobile network expansion. Public-private partnerships can be a game-changer in achieving full digital coverage.

4. Community Involvement & Local Solutions

Local bodies and panchayats can play a crucial role in identifying priority areas for network expansion and assisting in land allocation for setting up towers.

While Odisha has made significant progress in mobile network expansion, the fact that 2,603 villages remain without coverage is a serious concern. The government must prioritize telecom infrastructure in remote districts like Kandhamal, Rayagada, Gajapati, and Koraput to ensure digital inclusion. Learning from the success of Balasore, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri, a focused effort can transform Odisha into a fully connected state, empowering every citizen with the benefits of digital access.

The road to complete digital inclusion may be challenging, but with the right policies, investments, and community efforts, Odisha can bridge the connectivity gap and move towards a future where every village is digitally empowered.