Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), an Indian state-run telecommunications company, has made substantial progress in deploying its 4G network and is actively preparing for future 5G upgrades. As of the end of October 2023, BSNL has successfully installed a total of 50,708 4G sites across India, with 41,957 of these sites currently operational. The equipment deployed is 5G-upgradable, ensuring the network will be ready for upcoming advancements.
Embracing the Atmanirbhar Bharat Initiative
The rollout of BSNL’s 4G network, which commenced in September 2023, aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, emphasizing the deployment of indigenously developed equipment. Minister of State for Communications, Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, underscored this milestone, highlighting its support for the national endeavor. The commitment to using homegrown technology demonstrates BSNL’s dedication to boosting domestic industries and enhancing national self-reliance in telecommunications.
Strategic Guidance and Future Plans
BSNL has engaged the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to strategize the company’s revival by accelerating the 4G rollout, improving service quality, and integrating advanced technologies. BCG’s interim report has already provided recommendations to achieve these goals. The Indian government and BSNL aim to launch 5G services in 2025, following successful network trials. Union Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya Scindia, confirmed this timeline, noting that BSNL has already completed trials for its 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) and core network using the 3.6 GHz and 700 MHz frequency bands.
Infrastructure Development and Market Challenges
BSNL’s infrastructure development plans are ambitious, with a target to establish 100,000 4G sites by mid-2025. A significant number of these sites will transition to 5G in a phased manner. The trials, conducted in collaboration with C-DOT and local manufacturers, demonstrated the effective use of domestically sourced equipment. The Indian government’s formation of a project management unit (PMU) will further streamline the 4G deployment, with daily monitoring and collaboration with partners like Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Tejas Networks, and C-DOT.
In May 2023, a consortium led by Tata Group received an order from BSNL to install 4G sites nationwide. Tejas Networks and C-DOT are providing the necessary technology for this initiative. Despite these efforts, BSNL’s market share has declined over recent years due to limited 4G coverage. The company lost 18 million customers in the last fiscal year, resulting in a reduced market share of 7.46% as of April 2024.
Conclusion
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), an Indian state-run telecommunications entity, has made significant strides in rolling out its 4G network and is gearing up for the introduction of 5G technology. By the end of October 2023, BSNL has successfully set up 50,708 4G sites across the vast expanse of India. Out of these, 41,957 sites are up and running, providing improved connectivity and services to a substantial user base. The equipment used for these installations is designed to be 5G-upgradable, which means that BSNL is strategically positioning itself for future advancements in telecommunications technology. This foresight will enable a smoother transition to 5G when the time comes, ensuring that their network can handle the demands of the next generation of wireless communication. Their efforts not only improve the current state of telecommunications in India but also pave the way for future developments, enhancing the overall digital infrastructure of the country.
