With the recent tariff hikes by private telecom giants like Jio, Airtel, and Vi, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has seen a resurgence in popularity. These private operators increased their prepaid and postpaid recharge plans by up to 15 percent, prompting users to look for more affordable alternatives. As a result, many subscribers have made the switch to BSNL, thanks to its more budget-friendly plans. The state-owned telecom operator has capitalized on this opportunity by accelerating its 4G rollout, aiming to attract new customers and regain market share.

BSNL's 4G Rollout Timeline and Infrastructure Expansion

In a recent statement by Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, it was revealed that BSNL plans to roll out 1 lakh 4G towers by mid-2025. Additionally, 25,000 villages currently lacking telecom and mobile internet connectivity are set to be connected by the state-run telecom operator within this timeline.

The rollout of 4G services by BSNL has been eagerly anticipated. The initial plan was to install 75,000 4G sites by Diwali 2024, but progress has been slower than expected, with only 25,000 sites installed so far. This delay raises concerns about the company’s ability to meet its targets and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

While India is committed to developing its own 4G network, competitors like Jio have already made significant strides with their 5G technology. However, Jio still relies on external vendors for its 4G infrastructure, giving BSNL an opportunity to lead in indigenous 4G development. BSNL is also actively testing 5G, and its technological backbone for the 4G rollout is being supported by companies such as TCS, C-DoT, and Tejas Networks.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite the promising roadmap, BSNL faces several challenges. The company’s delayed rollout of 4G services could hinder its ability to attract new customers, particularly as private operators continue to dominate the market with faster network upgrades. However, BSNL’s competitive pricing, coupled with its renewed focus on network expansion, could prove to be a game-changer, especially for customers in rural and underserved areas.

India’s ambitions extend beyond 4G and 5G, with a strong emphasis on securing 10 percent of global patents in the emerging 6G space. As the telecom landscape continues to evolve, BSNL's role in this transformative journey could be pivotal.

BSNL’s 4G rollout is set to be completed by mid-2025, and its success will largely depend on how effectively it can deliver reliable and cost-effective services to its customers. The upcoming months will be crucial in determining whether BSNL can regain its foothold in the competitive Indian telecom market.

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