Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) users will soon enjoy 5G services, with Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announcing that the government telecom company will launch its 5G network by June 2025. Speaking at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum on October 14, 2024, Scindia shared insights into the company’s progress and preparations for the 5G rollout.
Extensive Infrastructure Upgrades
BSNL is upgrading its infrastructure nationwide, installing thousands of mobile towers to support 4G and 5G services. The minister revealed that BSNL aims to have one lakh sites ready by April-May 2025, with 38,300 sites already installed. This aggressive infrastructure development reflects the government’s strong commitment to modernizing BSNL’s network capabilities.
Transition from 4G to 5G
BSNL’s journey toward 5G will follow a smooth transition from its current 4G network. The company’s 4G technology is being developed domestically through a collaboration between C-DOT and IT giant TCS. This transition will make India the sixth country in the world to establish such a large-scale shift in telecom technology, as emphasized by Scindia.
Government Support and 6G Ambitions
Minister Scindia also highlighted India’s future telecom ambitions, stating that the country aims to not just follow the global pace in 5G but also to lead the world in 6G technology. With a substantial government budget allocated for BSNL’s revival, the focus remains on implementing advanced telecom technologies rapidly. The installation of 4.5 lakh towers in just 22 months has already brought 5G services to 80% of India’s population, setting the stage for BSNL’s role in the country’s telecom growth.
As BSNL transitions to 5G, the network upgrade will be pivotal for millions of users and strengthen India’s position as a leader in global telecom technology.
