Connecting the Unconnected: KFON’s Initiative to Digitise Tribal Areas

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:
KFON (Kerala Fiber Optic Network) has launched a visionary project aimed at digitising tribal regions across Kerala under the banner “Connecting the Unconnected.” As part of the project’s first phase, KFON has already provided connections to 103 households in the tribal areas of Chonampara and Valippara in Kottoor, Thiruvananthapuram. The initiative leverages corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs from companies and institutions, alongside resources from local self-governing bodies, elected representatives, and regional infrastructure development funds. Notably, South Indian Bank has provided financial assistance for the connections established in Kottoor. Similar internet connectivity plans are in the pipeline for other tribal areas.

A key pillar of Kerala’s digital transformation, KFON aims to enhance the state’s IT infrastructure through this initiative. By deploying fiber networks in areas where internet access is challenging, the project seeks to deliver high-quality connectivity and related services to remote regions and their surroundings. Beyond KFON’s direct connections, the infrastructure also enables other service providers to lease the fiber network to extend their services.

In Kottoor, the connections have facilitated internet access for study centers in Valippara and Chonampara, benefiting a total of 103 households in the area. In Wayanad’s Pandaladikkunnu, two Wi-Fi access points established by KFON now serve over 10 households. Additionally, more than 250 commercial internet connections have been provided in Attappadi’s tribal areas in Palakkad. KFON has extended its services to remote and highland regions, including Ranni Vadasserikkara, Sabarimala in Pathanamthitta, Wayanad, and Idukki districts, covering diverse rural and urban settings. The project’s overarching goal is to ensure internet-based services across all tribal regions in Kerala.

Dr. Santhosh Babu IAS (Retd.), Principal Secretary and Managing Director of KFON, highlighted the project’s alignment with Kerala’s policy of recognizing internet access as a fundamental right. He stated, “In a state where internet access is considered a basic right, no one should be left disconnected. The KFON initiative bridges this gap by ensuring connectivity in tribal regions. In addition to the free connections provided as part of the KFON project, the ‘Connecting the Unconnected’ initiative, in collaboration with CSR programs, aims to enhance digital literacy and expand internet infrastructure. This effort is a step forward in Kerala’s journey toward digital inclusivity and development.