Lieutenant Governor, R K Mathur reviewed the progress of projects under the Department of Information Technology, UT Ladakh on September 22.

Status of mobile network coverage and VSAT connections across the UT, ongoing projects aiming up-gradation of existing network quality and provision of new connections was informed.
 
LG Mathur suggested the department collect data regarding 4G coverage in hamlets, villages, tourist spots, highways etc. to have a comprehensive picture of the covered, uncovered and black spots across the entire Union Territory. He expressed the need for an approach guided by the needs of Ladakh in terms of reliable voice and data connectivity. 

Further, he urged that the Steering Committee be formed to monitor telecom projects in the UT to submit a comprehensive report on the progress achieved so far and works to be done within a fixed timeframe.

Speaking in terms of having a reliable source of communication in face of a disaster, LG Mathur suggested that reliable portable voice and data communication technology should be deployed. He stated that similar facilities can also be used for providing banking and other services in unconnected areas.

Laying special emphasis on creating a reliable and up-to-date database on births, deaths and number of families in Ladakh, LG Mathur suggested digitization of the data on the existing GoI portal as well as a suitable UT portal. He stated that this database will prove beneficial for analysis on many fronts making it possible for the administration to take necessary steps for overall development in education, health, connectivity etc.

Secretary IT, Saugat Biswas informed the chair that relocating VSATs from areas where 4G connections have been made available is under process and these will be allocated in uncovered areas. He added that other major projects involving digitization in offices at district and block levels are underway and e-office will be implemented in these offices in a time-bound manner.

The meeting also discussed providing enhanced bandwidth for VSATs, the need for a reliable network as well as reliable power connections to mobile ATMs and ATMs in far-flung areas.

Progress of Ladakh State Data Center (LSDC), Right of Way Policy, Citizens band radio etc. were also reviewed.