In a country where only 24% of rural households have internet access compared to 66% in cities (NSSO), Kerala is leading the way in digital inclusion with the Kerala Fiber Optic Network (KFON). KFON is committed to ensuring high-speed internet for all, with a special focus on underserved communities. Through its “Connecting the Unconnected” initiative, KFON is working to provide seamless connectivity in remote and tribal regions, transforming lives through digital empowerment.
KFON is actively working to bring internet connectivity to all 4,600 tribal habitations in Kerala within a year. The initiative has already made a significant impact in Kottoor (Trivandrum) and Attappadi (Palakkad), where digital infrastructure has been established to enhance education, healthcare, and financial inclusion for tribal communities. This project is funded through CSR contributions. KFON is calling upon companies to support this transformative mission and improve the lives of Kerala’s tribal communities through digital empowerment.
Currently, over 5,237 free connections have been provided to Below Poverty Line (BPL) families, ensuring digital access for those who need it the most.
Since it began operating in March 2024, KFON has rapidly expanded, approaching 1 lakh active subscribers. The network has already provided 85,853 connections, including 30,438 government offices, 53,906 commercial connections, 5,237 BPL families, 212 internet leased line connections, and 263 SME broadband connections. KFON’s strong infrastructure is transforming Kerala into a digitally inclusive state.
KFON’s state-wide infrastructure includes 31,153 km of optical fiber, 375 Points of Presence (PoPs), a state-of-the-art Network Operating Center (NOC), and 3,748 local network providers working under strategic agreements. With a bandwidth carrying capacity of 100 Gbps (scalable to 500 Gbps), KFON ensures high-speed, uninterrupted internet access across Kerala.
Beyond connectivity, KFON is focusing on sustainable operational success through internet leased line services. The company holds an ISP license, an IP infrastructure license, and an NLD (National Long Distance) license. KFON’s project also includes monetization activities like dark fiber, fiber-to-the-home, and leased internet lines. KFON has provided 6,307 km of dark fiber commercially to seven customers.
For the past year and a half, all offices in the Secretariat have been using KFON connections. Starting in June 2024, the Kerala Legislative Assembly also transitioned to KFON services. KFON has already begun delivering exceptional services to various government departments and prominent institutions in the health, education, industry, and finance sectors, as well as startups. KFON aims to provide 250,000 connections by the end of 2025.
KFON is ready to broaden its services by offering value-added features along with internet connectivity. KFON has established a carrier grade network architecture to accommodate a larger customer base . A new OTT platform featuring South Indian TV channels and movies at affordable prices is set to launch in April. The tender process for the OTT services is nearing completion, and KFON’s next step is to secure VNO license and also set to introduce IPTV services as part of its upcoming range of value-added offerings. Additionally, KFON is also working towards obtaining a license to provide internet services across PAN India.
KFON is actively seeking collaborations with corporates, institutions, and government bodies to further its mission of digital empowerment. Recognized as the “Infrastructure Initiative of the Year” at the Asian Telecom Awards 2024, KFON is setting a benchmark for digital infrastructure in India.
