Microsoft, AirJaldi launch connectivity program to offer internet access to 5 lakh underserved people

Microsoft has partnered with internet service provider AirJaldi to expand connectivity services to serve 500,000 underserved beneficiaries in rural regions. Under a three-year memorandum of understanding signed by the companies, the AirJaldi Networks will be expanded to three states – Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha with coverage of an additional 20,000 sq.km. Further, the networks in existing areas of operations in nine states will be strengthened to support 120,000 beneficiaries.

“I am delighted and excited to sign this MoU with Microsoft India. This partnership, which is a continuation of our fruitful work with Microsoft since 2016, is a significant step forward in achieving our joint goals of providing wide-ranging, meaningful and impactful connectivity across India,” said Michael Ginguld, director (strategy and operations), AirJaldi Networks. AirJaldi is the brand name for Rural Broadband Private Limited. Its mission is to offer sustainable broadband internet networks and other offerings in rural regions in India.

Under the ‘Contentful Connectivity’ program with Microsoft AirJaldi will deploy, implement, and test new connectivity technologies and connectivity-related solutions. The program will also offer courses for women entrepreneurship and rural connectivity and integrate Microsoft modules on digital productivity, employability skills, and AI fluency skills to serve 15,000 underserved community members in 12 states. These network-led training programs will be delivered through the Microsoft Community Training platform through approaches like in-person training and online sessions.

“Beyond solving for internet access to help the country’s digital capabilities continue to grow, Microsoft expects that this expanded access to the internet will also help these beneficiaries to enhance their digital productivity, AI and employability skills,” said Antony Cook, corporate vice president and deputy general counsel, Microsoft.

Lastly, the two entities will work on building Internet of Things (IoT) based connectivity-related solutions on networking, e-learning, skilling, telemedicine, agriculture, accessibility, and environment to transform livelihoods and well-being of enterprises and communities