In today's world, the Internet has evolved from merely a communication tool to a crucial platform for education, employment, and accessing various services. While internet services in Bangladesh are gradually expanding, the high cost of mobile data and broadband remains unaffordable for many, especially in rural areas and for students.
As a result, these groups are unable to fully benefit from the internet. This hinders the effective utilization of information technology to improve the country’s economy, education, healthcare, and administrative sectors
From university students to those in rural areas, online classes, courses, and resources are increasingly accessed through the internet. However, many students across the country cannot fully benefit from these opportunities due to the high cost of internet access.
This issue not only impacts education but also hampers the country's business growth and overall socio-economic transformation. In today’s world, the internet is essential for everything from business operations to administrative tasks, yet small and medium-sized businesses in Bangladesh struggle to leverage its potential because of the steep costs.
This is leading to a productivity gap, which is slowing the country's long-term economic development. Comparatively, other South Asian countries like Sri Lanka and India offer much more affordable internet. In India, the cost per GB is only 10-15 Tk, while in Bangladesh, it is nearly three times higher.
Kenya offers a prime example from Africa, where the country has made significant reforms in the mobile and internet sectors, ensuring affordable internet access for its population.
This model could be applied in Bangladesh as well. Affordable internet empowers people to engage in economic activities and enables local businesses to transition to digital platforms, increasing their competitiveness.
If affordable internet reaches the remote areas of Bangladesh, rural populations would gain access to crucial digital services. For instance, it could improve healthcare by providing telemedicine, support farmers with up-to-date agricultural information, and facilitate access to essential government services.
Additionally, affordable internet can boost the development of e-governance, promote digital payments, and enable the concept of "smart villages" by integrating technology into rural life.
To realize these benefits, it is essential to reduce internet costs, making it affordable for the general population and thus within their purchasing power. This will help unlock the full potential of digital transformation across all sectors of the country.
The call rate ceiling, which requires telecom operators to keep call charges within set limits, has been in place for a long time. It is now essential to adopt a "one price, one rate" system.
Consumers are facing significant challenges due to the variety of packages and the mandatory use of internet bundles, leading to higher costs and reduced competition among telecom companies.
Removing the ceiling could boost competition, encouraging operators to offer more affordable services. In this context, prioritizing the development of non-discriminatory technology is crucial.
Experts emphasize that the country's development will not be sustainable without widespread internet access. To achieve this, internet costs must be made affordable for everyone.
A special task force could be formed to implement effective policies for the growth of the telecom sector. If we aim to follow the example of developed nations, internet access must be made available to all citizens, including those in rural areas.
It is important to recognize that the internet is no longer just a source of entertainment; it has become a vital tool for people's participation in governance.
Therefore, by implementing necessary reforms in line with international standards, the people of Bangladesh can fully integrate into the digital world and play a significant role in the country's development.
