The correct answer is: A. To provide basic postal and telecommunication facilities to the Gram Panchayat.
Panchayat Sanchar Sewa Yojana (PSYS) is a government of India initiative to provide basic postal and telecommunication facilities to the Gram Panchayats (GPs). The scheme was launched in 2006 and aims to provide all GPs with access to basic postal and telecommunication services, such as post offices, telephones, and internet connectivity.
The scheme is being implemented by the Department of Posts and Telecommunications (DoPT) and the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD). The DoPT is responsible for providing postal services, while the MoRD is responsible for providing telecommunication services.
The scheme has been implemented in a phased manner. The first phase of the scheme was completed in 2012, and the second phase is currently underway. The scheme is expected to be completed by 2017.
The scheme has been successful in providing basic postal and telecommunication facilities to the GPs. As of 2016, over 500,000 GPs have been provided with access to these facilities. The scheme has also helped to improve the communication infrastructure in rural areas.
However, the scheme has also faced some challenges. One of the challenges is the lack of awareness about the scheme among the GPs. Another challenge is the lack of trained manpower to operate the facilities.
Despite these challenges, the Panchayat Sanchar Sewa Yojana is a successful initiative that has helped to improve the communication infrastructure in rural areas.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option A: To provide basic postal and telecommunication facilities to the Gram Panchayat. This is the correct answer. The Panchayat Sanchar Sewa Yojana aims to provide all GPs with access to basic postal and telecommunication services, such as post offices, telephones, and internet connectivity.
- Option B: To provide basic telecommunication facilities in rural areas. This option is incorrect. The Panchayat Sanchar Sewa Yojana aims to provide all GPs with access to basic postal and telecommunication services, not just in rural areas.
- Option C: To provide basic communication facilities in urban areas. This option is incorrect. The Panchayat Sanchar Sewa Yojana aims to provide all GPs with access to basic postal and telecommunication services, not just in urban areas.
- Option D: To provide telecommunication facilities to Gram Panchayat. This option is incorrect. The Panchayat Sanchar Sewa Yojana aims to provide all GPs with access to basic postal and telecommunication services, not just telecommunication facilities.