Special committee would be formed in Mumbai, and government will decide on the properties of BSNL and MTNL

The BharatNet project was also discussed in the meeting, which aims to connect every village in the country with a fast internet facility. Scindia said that Maharashtra has performed well in Phase 1 of BharatNet and now the target is to extend the communication network to all the remaining gram panchayats of the state in Phase 2.

He said that one lakh towers of 4G network will be installed across the country, especially in those areas where there is no connectivity till now. This will bring digital revolution even in the most remote areas of Maharashtra.

In the meeting, emphasis was laid on increasing network connectivity in Naxal-affected areas like Gadchiroli. Fadnavis assured that the government will provide full security for installing towers in these areas.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said that if a strong communication system is established in these remote areas, it will help in eliminating Naxalism. The government believes that after connecting to the Internet and modern technology, the local youth will have better opportunities and they will be able to join the mainstream.

The government will review the reservations on BSNL and MTNL properties in Mumbai and start the process of removing them as per the rules. The state government intends to develop useful facilities for the citizens on these properties. Fadnavis assured that the Maharashtra government will also try to be at the forefront of the country in the second phase of BharatNet.