Shimla, Sep 26 (Inditop.com) Telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) has launched cheap broadband connectivity to the internet in Himachal Pradesh for faster penetration of information technology in rural and remote areas, an official said here Saturday.

“Under the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), BSNL has launched broadband connectivity in rural and tribal areas of the hill state at a subsidised tariff,” a BSNL spokesperson said.

The government will provide subsidy up to Rs.850 for individual and government organisations for the first 31 connections. Self-help groups will be provided connections on a preferential basis, the spokesperson added.

The USOF, which was initiated by Department of Telecommunications, will be controlled by BSNL for the implementation of this project in rural areas across the country.