Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), a prominent Indian state-run telecom operator, has announced a significant milestone as its 4G subscriber base reaches 8 lakh, setting the stage for further expansion. With the deployment of 4G infrastructure underway, BSNL is collaborating with leading Indian companies to roll out high-speed connectivity across the nation.
Deployment Dynamics
Leading the charge is a consortium helmed by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), in collaboration with Tejas Networks and the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT). TCS serves as the system integrator (SI), while Tejas Networks furnishes the Radio Access Network (RAN) equipment, and C-DoT contributes to the core infrastructure.
While the RAN equipment is already in place, the deployment of the network core from C-DoT is slated for completion in the western, eastern, and southern regions by August. The nationwide rollout of 4G services by BSNL is anticipated to coincide with the festive season, followed by a strategic move into 5G services within the next 12 months.
Expansion Plans
BSNL’s current 4G footprint encompasses the northern states, including Haryana, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and western Uttar Pradesh. As the network infrastructure matures, the telco is eyeing a PAN-India commercial launch, targeting a deployment of 20,000 4G towers. Moreover, the deployed RAN infrastructure is designed to seamlessly transition to 5G, ensuring future readiness.
Market Dynamics
BSNL’s pursuit of bolstering its subscriber base comes amidst intensifying competition in the telecom sector. With private telcos dominating the market with high-speed networks and competitive pricing, BSNL aims to carve its niche by offering enticing incentives. Free 4G SIM cards and bonus data offers are among the strategies employed by BSNL to attract more users to its network.
Road Ahead
The rapid expansion of BSNL’s 4G network underscores its commitment to bridging the digital divide and providing affordable connectivity to millions across India. As deployment efforts accelerate and strategic partnerships flourish, BSNL is poised to emerge as a formidable player in the evolving telecom landscape, offering cutting-edge services to its discerning clientele.
