Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has made significant progress in its 4G network expansion across India. As of March 5, 2025, the state-owned telecommunications company has installed a total of 83,629 4G sites nationwide, with 74,123 of these sites currently operational. BSNL aims to deploy and commission 100,000 4G sites by the end of June 2025.
The Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, highlighted that BSNL’s revenues have been adversely affected by delays in the rollout of 4G networks and intense competition in the mobile segment. The timely deployment of 4G services is seen as a crucial step to enhance BSNL’s market position and financial performance.
In response to inquiries about potential Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) packages, Dr. Chandra Sekhar clarified that there are currently no such proposals under consideration. The first VRS package was introduced in 2019 as part of a government relief package, resulting in a 51% reduction in employee costs and helping BSNL achieve an operating profit in the 2020-21 financial year.
Looking ahead, BSNL plans to leverage its expanded 4G infrastructure to launch 5G services. The company is actively testing 5G Standalone (SA) technology in collaboration with Indian technology manufacturers. Notably, BSNL is considering allocating up to 50% of its 5G SA sites to foreign vendors, a strategic move aimed at enhancing its competitiveness against private telecom operators.
This accelerated infrastructure development underscores BSNL’s commitment to providing advanced telecommunications services and bridging the digital divide across India.
