BSNL 4G Expansion 50,700+ Towers Installed, 41,950+ Operational, and Strong Financial Growth

• BSNL 4G network reaches 50,700+ installation sites, with 41,950+ operational towers.
• Affordable tariffs position BSNL as a strong competitor to private telecom giants.
• Significant revenue growth and operational profit recorded in FY 2024’s first half.

The Indian government-owned telecom giant Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has made remarkable strides in expanding its 4G network across the country. With more than 50,700 4G sites installed by October 2024, BSNL has operationalized over 41,950 of them, showcasing rapid growth in its network infrastructure. By offering affordable tariff plans, the company is effectively competing with private telecom operators like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel.

BSNL’s adoption of indigenous 4G equipment under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative marks a significant step toward self-reliance. Communications Minister Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar recently highlighted that BSNL’s 4G infrastructure is 5G-ready, reflecting the company’s forward-thinking approach. In line with its expansion goals, BSNL has also engaged Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to optimize its business strategies, with interim reports already submitted.

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BSNL 4G: Expansion and Key Developments

BSNL has rapidly deployed 4G sites across the nation, making substantial progress toward strengthening its network. Here are the major highlights:

• Installation sites: Over 50,700 4G sites have been installed, with 41,950+ actively operational.
• BSNL 4G tower upgrades: The deployed towers are capable of being upgraded to 5G, ensuring future scalability.
• Strategic initiatives: BSNL partnered with BCG for improved business strategies, enhancing operational efficiency.

Financial Performance and Subscriber Growth

The financial outlook for BSNL has improved considerably in the current fiscal year.

• Revenue growth: BSNL’s revenue from operations increased by 10.4%, reaching ₹9,235 crore in the first half of FY 2024.
• Reduced losses: Net loss reduced to ₹2,785 crore, a notable improvement from ₹2,951 crore in the same period last year.
• Operating profit: EBITDA surged by 57% to ₹904 crore, reflecting better operational performance.
• New subscribers: BSNL gained millions of subscribers, while competitors like Airtel and Jio reported declines.

The company’s efforts to enhance consumer mobility services and optimize expenditure have started yielding positive results. Employee costs, which account for 31% of BSNL’s total expenses, remain a key area for cost rationalization.

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5G network The Road Ahead

BSNL plans to launch its 5G network in 2025, leveraging its current 4G infrastructure. This transition will be seamless due to the 5G-readiness of its existing towers. With its affordable plans and consistent infrastructure upgrades, BSNL is set to play a pivotal role in India’s telecom landscape.

BSNL 4G has proven to be a game-changer in the Indian telecom sector. By rapidly expanding its network, upgrading towers, and improving financial performance, the company is ready to challenge private telecom operators. Its commitment to self-reliance and innovation ensures a bright future, especially as it gears up for a 5G rollout.