Wipro has bagged ₹615-crore Karnataka government project to establish a State information highway connecting its 10,000 offices across the State under the Karnataka State Wide Area Network (KSWAN-2). Along with Wipro, the State cabinet — which met under the leadership of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah —awarded contract to Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd to provide broadband connection for ₹186 crore for five years.

The ₹800-crore KSWAN is second phase to strengthening e-governance initiative in the State and connect all government offices and its functionaries will get fast and reliable connectivity. Briefing reporters after the Cabinet meet, TB Jayachandra, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, said the main objective of the project is to establish a secure communication highway at all levels of the government — State, district and taluk.

“It is expected to help the government take quick decisions and ensure proper delivery of services to the people in a short time efficiently,” he added.

KSWAN’s first phase was cleared when BS Yedurappa was the Chief Minister in 2009. On a pilot basis at a cost of ₹180 crore was introduced at Deputy Commissioner’s offices at Dakshina Kannada and Shimoga.

“Now, the State government by roping in Wipro and BSNL is keen to implement the information highway that connects 10,000 offices across the State,” said Jayachandra.

The other key decision taken by the State Cabinet include approval of Central government’s Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS).

Jayachandra said to the scheme is beneficial to the State as six airports — Mysuru, Bidar, Hubballi, Vijayanagar (Ballari), Shivamogga and Kalaburgi — have been identified to enhance connectivity.

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