₹99 Internet Scheme – India is on the brink of a digital revolution as the central government announces a game-changing ₹99 Internet Scheme. With the promise to deliver high-speed wireless broadband to every Indian village within just 7 days, this initiative has triggered massive excitement across rural India. The scheme eliminates the need for documents, wiring, or technical setup, making it the most accessible and fastest connectivity rollout in the country’s history.
What Is the ₹99 Internet Scheme?
The ₹99 Internet Scheme is a newly introduced government-backed program aimed at bridging the digital divide between urban and rural India. The scheme allows individuals in remote villages to access high-speed broadband internet without needing traditional cables, documents, or long processing times.
Key Highlights:
- Only ₹99 for full setup and activation
- Wireless broadband delivered in 7 days
- No physical wiring required
- No Aadhaar or ID proof needed
- Works in low-network zones
- Setup by local agents authorized by the government
Why This Scheme Is a Game-Changer for Rural India
This initiative is designed to revolutionize digital accessibility in villages that have long remained offline or under-connected. By using wireless radio and satellite technology, the scheme bypasses the need for fiber-optic cables and landline setups.
Benefits to Rural Citizens:
- Access to online education platforms
- Better digital banking and UPI services
- More job opportunities through freelancing and remote work
- Farmers can access weather data, mandi rates, and government schemes online
- Increased access to telemedicine and government portals
How the ₹99 Internet Scheme Works
The scheme operates on a plug-and-play wireless broadband model, which makes installation fast and simple. Here’s how the process unfolds:
Step-by-Step Process:
- Locate your village agent or register online
- Pay ₹99 as a one-time setup fee
- Receive your wireless device via post or local pickup
- No document verification needed
- Device auto-connects to nearby towers or satellite links
- Internet begins working within minutes of device activation
₹99 Internet Scheme vs Other Rural Internet Options
| Feature | ₹99 Govt Scheme | Fiber Broadband | Mobile Data Packs | VSAT Internet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | 7 Days | 30-45 Days | Instant | 15-20 Days |
| Setup Cost | ₹99 (One-Time) | ₹2000-₹5000 | ₹0 | ₹10,000+ |
| Monthly Cost | ₹99 – ₹299 | ₹599 – ₹1099 | ₹199 – ₹599 | ₹2000+ |
| Documents Required | None | Aadhaar, PAN | Aadhaar | KYC, Address Proof |
| Availability in Villages | 85% (Phase 1) | <20% | 65% | 10% |
| Installation Type | Wireless | Wired | Wireless | Dish + Setup |
| Signal Stability in Remote | High | Low | Moderate | High |
Eligibility & Rollout Timeline
The scheme will be implemented in phases to ensure stable delivery and proper installation by trained agents. The government has signed contracts with local vendors and private ISPs to ensure 100% coverage.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Resident of a village or rural area
- No existing broadband connection
- One connection per household
Rollout Phases:
| Phase | States Covered | Timeline (Expected) | Estimated Villages |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UP, Bihar, MP, Rajasthan | July 1 – July 15, 2025 | 38,000+ |
| 2 | Maharashtra, Odisha, Chhattisgarh | July 16 – July 31, 2025 | 26,000+ |
| 3 | South & North-East India | August 2025 onwards | 40,000+ |
How to Apply for ₹99 Internet in Your Village
Applying for the scheme is straightforward and designed to be hassle-free.
Application Methods:
- Visit the nearest Common Service Centre (CSC)
- Call the toll-free number released by the Ministry of Telecom
- Use the government portal: [to be announced]
- Contact local Panchayat agents distributing devices
No Documents Needed:
You don’t need to show Aadhaar, PAN, or income proof. Only a mobile number and village address are required.
Internet Speed, Validity & Recharge Plans
Once installed, the connection comes with a basic data pack that can be extended through affordable monthly recharges. Speeds are optimized for video calling, streaming, and online learning.
| Plan Name | Price (INR) | Speed | Data Limit | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starter 99 | ₹99 | 20 Mbps | 3 GB/day | 30 Days |
| Learning 149 | ₹149 | 25 Mbps | 5 GB/day | 30 Days |
| Work-from-Home 199 | ₹199 | 30 Mbps | 6 GB/day | 30 Days |
| Unlimited 299 | ₹299 | 50 Mbps | Unlimited* | 30 Days |
*Unlimited plan has a fair usage policy (FUP) of 150 GB after which speed reduces to 10 Mbps.
Who’s Behind the Initiative?
This scheme is being rolled out under the “Digital Gramin Bharat Abhiyan,” an initiative led by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in partnership with BharatNet and private wireless ISPs. Companies like RailTel, BSNL, and Reliance Jio are said to be stakeholders in the deployment.
Backed by:
- Government of India – Department of Telecom
- BharatNet (Fiber Infrastructure Backbone)
- Digital India Programme
- MeitY Village Tech Labs
The ₹99 Internet Scheme marks a massive shift toward inclusive digital infrastructure. With its lightning-fast setup, document-free access, and affordable pricing, the program is set to empower rural communities like never before. While challenges like power availability and device support may arise in remote areas, the central government is already working on solar-powered routers and offline support helplines to address them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is the ₹99 payment a one-time charge or monthly fee?
It is a one-time setup charge. Monthly data packs start from ₹99 and are optional.
Q2. What documents do I need to apply for this scheme?
No documents are needed. You only need to provide your village address and mobile number.
Q3. Will this work if there’s no tower nearby?
Yes, the scheme uses wireless and satellite signals, making it work even in low-network zones.
Q4. How do I recharge my plan after the first 30 days?
Recharges can be done online via UPI, mobile apps, or through your village agent.
Q5. Can multiple family members use the internet on one device?
Yes, the router supports WiFi and can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously.