UP Signs MoU with Hinduja to expand high-speed internet under Project Ganga

In a major push to strengthen digital infrastructure, the Uttar Pradesh government on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with OneOTT Intertainment Ltd, a subsidiary of the Hinduja Group, to expand high-speed broadband connectivity across the state under Project Ganga .

The MoU, inked between the State Transformation Commission and OneOTT Intertainment Ltd, aims to provide high-speed internet to over 20 lakh households in the next two to three years. Officials said the initiative is expected to create more than one lakh direct and indirect employment opportunities .

As part of the plan, around 8,000 to 10,000 local youths will be trained as digital service providers at the Nyaya Panchayat level, with 50% of positions reserved for women .

Speaking on the occasion, UP Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna said, “This agreement marks an important step towards strengthening digital infrastructure while generating large-scale employment. Under Project Ganga, high-speed broadband will reach about 20 lakh households, benefiting nearly one crore people.” He added that improved connectivity in rural areas will create avenues in online business, digital services, education, and healthcare.

The minister also highlighted the state government’s efforts to promote digital entrepreneurship , noting that under a scheme launched in January 2024, interest- and collateral-free loans of up to Rs 5 lakh are being provided to young entrepreneurs. Over one lakh beneficiaries have already availed of the facility.

Manoj Kumar Singh , CEO of the State Transformation Commission, emphasized that digital infrastructure is now as critical as physical infrastructure in driving development. He said the project will help bridge the digital divide, delivering broadband, OTT services, and high-speed internet to villages, and opening up opportunities in telemedicine, e-commerce, online education, digital skilling, and content creation . Expansion in border districts like Shravasti, Bahraich, and Balrampur is expected to particularly boost economic activity in underserved regions.

Vynsley Fernandes , Director of Hinduja Global Solutions, said the project draws inspiration from the life-sustaining role of the Ganga river , symbolizing a lifeline and highlighting its goal to bring growth and opportunities through digital access. Satya Prakash Singh , Chief Business Officer of OneOTT Intertainment Ltd, added that the initiative aims to extend connectivity to remote rural areas and foster growth in digital services.

Officials from the State Transformation Commission , the labour department , and representatives of the Hinduja Group attended the signing ceremony.