India’s state-run telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has significantly expanded its 4G network, with 96,103 sites now operational across the country. The rollout is part of the company’s effort to strengthen telecom services and expand high-speed connectivity nationwide.
The 4G sites are powered by indigenous technology developed by a consortium led by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). The consortium also includes Tejas Networks, another Tata Group company, along with C-DoT (Centre for Development of Telematics).
BSNL is currently working towards making 1,00,000 4G sites operational across India as part of its ongoing network expansion.
At the same time, the telecom operator is planning to deploy additional sites in the future. However, further expansion will require approval from the Union Cabinet. TCS has expressed confidence about securing additional work from the state-run telecom company as the network rollout progresses.
The current deployment of 1,00,000 sites is seen as only the beginning. Industry observers expect a much larger rollout of 4G infrastructure along with the introduction of 5G services in the coming years. Expanding network capacity is expected to help BSNL remain competitive in the telecom sector.
Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, confirmed the progress in a written reply to the Lok Sabha. According to the minister, BSNL has installed 97,906 4G sites across India, of which 96,103 sites are currently operational.
“The initiative is aimed at strengthening telecom services and expanding high-speed connectivity across the country,” the minister added.
Sekhar also highlighted the government’s financial support for the telecom operator. He said the government has approved 3 revival packages worth about Rs 3.22 lakh crore to support BSNL’s growth.
Under these relief measures, the government has administratively assigned spectrum to BSNL across several frequency bands. These include 700 MHz, 800 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2500 MHz and 3300 MHz.
The airwaves have been allocated at the spectrum discovered price. According to the minister, the relief packages have already started delivering results, with the state-run telecom company reporting operating profits since FY21.
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