BSNL to introduce 4G in 45,000 villages

With its planned 4G services launch, public-sector firm targets rural areas spanning 7% of all villages to scoop up market share

- SUBHAYAN CHAKRABORTY

In its plans to begin 4G services early 2023 Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has decided to prioritise tower installations in 45,180 villages across India that are yet to be connected with the fourth-generation network.

The state-owned telecom service provider (TSP) will focus on unserved areas to give it a toehold in the competitive market currently dominated by the three private sector TSPS Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea.

Likewise, a plan is being formulated to distribute BSNL's upcoming 1.25 lakh towers across the map, officials said. The unserved villages represent 7 per cent of the 6.4 lakh villages in the country. If the plan falls into place, it will give the company a head start in a large segment of the market.

"We have undertaken detailed studies of unserviced and underserviced areas nationwide. Large chunks of the map are yet to get reliable 4G support. BSNL will fill those gaps," a senior official said.