UP Government Signs MoU with Hinduja Group for Project GANGA | 11 Mar 2026

Why in News? 

The Uttar Pradesh State Transformation Commission (STC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 9 March 2026, with OneOTT Intertainment Ltd, the broadband vertical of Hinduja Global Solutions (HGS), to bridge the digital divide in the state. 

Key Points: 

• Target: The initiative aims to provide high-speed broadband connectivity to 2 million (20 lakh) households over the next 2 to 3 years. 
• Focus: Priority will be given to rural and semi-urban areas, particularly aspirational and border districts such as Shravasti, Bahraich, and Balrampur. 
• Employment Generation: The project is expected to create over 1 lakh direct and indirect jobs across Uttar Pradesh. 
• Digital Entrepreneurship: The project will train 8,000 to 10,000 local youths as "Digital Service Providers" (DSPs) at the Nyaya Panchayat level. 
  • A significant focus is placed on gender inclusivity, with a target of 50% women participation among these local entrepreneurs. 
• Significance: Enhances the state's digital backbone to support e-governance and the "Digital India" mission. 
  • Social Impact: Facilitates remote access to essential services including telemedicine, online education, and e-commerce for rural populations. 
• Economic Empowerment: Provides a platform for local youth to become independent service providers with technical and financial support from the Hinduja Group.