As India’s telecom landscape continues to evolve rapidly, the state-run operator is doubling down on strengthening its existing network before moving to newer technologies.
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) will continue expanding its 4G network in the FY2026–27 period, while also evaluating future upgrades based on indigenous technologies, according to its top leadership. The focus, the company said, remains on building stable and wide-reaching coverage across the country.
“BSNL is progressing well with its 4G rollout, and will continue expansion next year. We are in the process of finalising orders for around 20,000 additional sites to strengthen our network coverage across the country. Additionally, we have floated a tender for deployment of another 10,000 sites on an operating expenditure model,” said A. Robert J Ravi.
BSNL’s ongoing 4G rollout is being executed by a consortium led by Tata Consultancy Services. The CMD said the deployment has made steady progress, with over 97,000 mobile towers already operational. The company is now working on follow-on orders to expand coverage in underserved and unserved regions, while consolidating its 4G infrastructure before assessing next-generation or 5G options.
“Our priority is to ensure a robust and reliable 4G coverage across the country. We are strengthening our network systematically using AI tools while also assessing various models for future indigenous technology adoption,” Ravi added.
The expansion forms part of BSNL’s broader strategy to improve connectivity and remain competitive. In contrast, private operators Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have together deployed and upgraded over 500,000 5G base transceiver stations over the last 3 years. Meanwhile, Vodafone Idea, a late entrant to 5G, is initially rolling out the technology only in select locations.
Earlier this month, BSNL launched Voice over Wi-Fi services nationwide, allowing customers to make calls over Wi-Fi networks and improving indoor coverage in low-signal areas.
TCS is deploying BSNL’s data network along with Tejas Networks and Centre for Development of Telematics, in line with the government’s push for domestic technology. In 2022, TCS secured a ₹20,000 crore 4G equipment deal from BSNL, along with a 10-year annual maintenance contract.
BSNL’s commercial 4G launch had earlier faced delays. In March 2020, an initial tender for upgrading 49,300 sites and adding 7,000 new ones for Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited was scrapped by the Department of Telecommunications after concerns that it conflicted with the Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) 2017 policy, as the proposal involved ZTE and Nokia.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
