India's state-owned operator, BSNL, is planning to introduce 4G services in the country in October, as reported by local news outlets.
This decision comes following positive trial results. BSNL has already installed approximately 25,000 4G towers nationwide and has begun distributing 4G SIM cards to its customers. However, there are still a few more trials to be conducted before the official launch of 4G services.
Also Read: BSNL Prepares for 4G Launch in Chennai and Surrounding Districts
Moreover, the company aims to roll out commercial 5G in 2025. In comparison, major players like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have already launched 5G services. Reliance Jio had garnered 108 million 5G subscribers by late June, while Airtel had acquired 72 million. Vodafone Idea also completed its minimum rollout obligation in all 17 circles where it acquired spectrum in August 2022.
BSNL's focus on 2G and 3G services has led to a decline in its customer base, which dropped to 88.06 million in the last fiscal year. The government has urged the company to use Indian resources for its network, causing concern among BSNL employees.
Despite suggestions from the employees' union to temporarily use Vodafone Idea's network for 4G services due to delays from Tata Consultancy Services, this proposal has not been accepted. The Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya Scindia, is closely monitoring BSNL's progress in launching 4G services, with daily targets set for the project.
Related: BSNL Union Calls for Immediate 4G Access via Vi Network
The company aims to deploy 100,000 4G sites by the end of the current financial year on March 31, 2025, and has already completed 25,000 sites.
Unlike its private competitors, BSNL has not raised prices recently, making its 4G services potentially more affordable. However, the quality of service provided will ultimately determine whether BSNL can attract more subscribers.
Read More: BSNL Launches Indigenous 4G Site in Kolkata
