Ministry of Communications has clarified that as per ‘The Telecommunications Act, 2023’ the Universal Service Obligation Fund, has become the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN). The DBN has mandate to support universal service through promoting access and delivery of telecommunication service in underserved rural, remote and urban areas.
At present, as per the License agreement, the license fee is based on Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) which includes USO Levy. Telecom Service Providers are depositing the Licence Fee as per license agreement.
The State/UT-wise details of funds spent from USO Fund during the said period is available at the USOF website (https://usof.gov.in).
