Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has achieved a major breakthrough by successfully testing its indigenous 5G technology on the 3.6 GHz and 700 MHz bands. This milestone highlights India’s push towards self-reliance in telecommunications as BSNL prepares for a 5G launch by early 2025. Here’s how BSNL’s efforts are reshaping the telecom landscape in India.
Indigenous 5G Trials in Key Spectrum Bands
Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced that BSNL has conducted successful trials of 5G radio access networks (RAN) and core infrastructure in both the 3.6 GHz and 700 MHz bands. This testing underscores BSNL’s commitment to pioneering homegrown 5G technology. Notably, BSNL’s access to the premium 700 MHz band—a frequency known for its extensive coverage—is an advantage only shared with Reliance Jio, given its high costs that deterred other operators.
4G Sites to Transition Smoothly to 5G by 2025
Currently, BSNL has deployed around 39,000 4G sites across urban and rural regions, with plans to expand these to 1 lakh sites by mid-2025. The operator’s existing 4G sites are strategically planned to support 5G upgrades, ensuring a smoother and faster transition for users once the 5G rollout begins. This upgrade plan is expected to reach a significant portion of the population, further strengthening BSNL’s connectivity reach.
Focus on Cost-Efficiency to Attract New Customers
BSNL’s decision to refrain from a tariff hike, as confirmed by CMD Robert J. Ravi, aligns with the goal of growing its customer base. As private telecom companies increased their tariffs, BSNL witnessed a surge in new subscribers, especially in July 2024, according to the TRAI report. By maintaining affordable rates, BSNL is likely to continue attracting budget-conscious users, particularly in rural areas.
A Boost to India’s Vision for Self-Reliance
By deploying indigenous 5G infrastructure, BSNL is not only advancing its technological offerings but also supporting India’s vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ in telecommunications. As the first operator to roll out an entirely homegrown 4G and 5G network, BSNL is setting a significant precedent in the industry.
Conclusion
BSNL’s successful 5G trials on indigenous infrastructure mark an exciting shift in India’s telecom sector. With a focus on affordability, extensive reach, and high-quality coverage, BSNL’s upcoming 5G rollout is poised to make an impact, bringing faster connectivity to both urban and rural communities.
