BSNL Launches Seven New Services and Plans for Innovative Asset Monetisation

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) has introduced several new services, including spam blockers, automated SIM kiosks, and direct-to-device connectivity. These initiatives aim to attract more subscribers and regain market share. The state-owned telecom company also unveiled a new logo and launched low latency 5G connectivity for mining operations in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC), using Made-in-India technology.

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BSNL's Strategic Plans and New Offerings

Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia launched seven new services for BSNL. The telecom firm plans to launch 4G services commercially soon. It is also exploring asset monetisation, potentially using land for data warehousing and Mobile Edge Computing. BSNL aims to compete with private telecom companies by introducing a 5G Network-as-a-Service (NAAS) tender for Delhi and Mumbai next week, enabling high-speed 5G networks on a hotspot basis.

BSNL's spam-blocking solutions automatically filter phishing attempts and malicious SMS, enhancing user safety. Automated SIM kiosks offer 24/7 services for purchasing, upgrading, porting, or replacing SIMs with UPI or QR-enabled payments and seamless KYC integration. India's first direct-to-device solution merges satellite and terrestrial networks, providing reliable connectivity in emergencies and remote areas, even enabling UPI payments.

Enhanced Connectivity and Services

BSNL has introduced Wi-Fi roaming services for its Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) customers, allowing high-speed internet access at BSNL hotspots without extra charges. This move aims to reduce data costs for users. Additionally, the telco announced a fibre-based intranet TV service with over 500 live channels and Pay TV through its FTTH network. This service is available to all BSNL FTTH subscribers without additional charges, as the data used for TV viewing does not consume the FTTH data pack.

Scindia highlighted BSNL's role as a government flagship enterprise representing citizens' aspirations. He expressed confidence that BSNL will meet new challenges in a competitive landscape. Scindia praised BSNL's development of its own 4G telecom stack, which will soon transition to 5G, calling it a significant achievement for India. He hopes BSNL will continue leading tech innovation.

Growth and Future Prospects

The minister stated that BSNL will have 100,000 4G sites by mid-next year, with some transitioning to 5G by then. Since the start of the 4G rollout six months ago, subscriber numbers have increased from 7.5 million in March 2024 to 18 million, despite only deploying and fibre-connecting 38,000 out of 100,000 towers. Data usage in 4G traffic has grown sevenfold during this period.

Robert Ravi, Chairman and Managing Director of BSNL, mentioned that the company does not plan to raise tariffs soon. Instead, BSNL will focus on improving consumer experience and gaining subscriber trust. Ravi stated, "We don't see any need for tariff hikes in the near future."