BSNL 5G : Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is preparing to launch India’s first completely indigenous 5G network, marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward technological self-reliance. After years of delays and challenges, the state-owned telecom operator is finally positioned to compete with private giants like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel in the high-speed connectivity race.

Strategic Launch Timeline Follows 4G Network Stabilization

Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has confirmed that BSNL will launch its 5G services only after achieving complete stabilization of its ongoing 4G network deployment. The company has installed 84,000 4G towers across India, with 76,000 already commissioned and operational. The target remains to complete all 100,000 4G towers by July 2025, setting the stage for the 5G rollout.

According to official statements, BSNL’s 5G launch is expected between June and August 2025, representing a measured approach that prioritizes network quality over speed to market. This timeline allows the company to leverage its 4G infrastructure, as the existing towers are software-upgradeable to 5G technology with minimal hardware modifications.

Indigenous Technology Development Showcases National Capabilities

BSNL’s 5G network represents a remarkable achievement in indigenous technology development, created entirely through domestic expertise and resources. The company has successfully conducted trials in Delhi at strategic locations including Nehru Place, Chanakyapuri, and Minto Road, demonstrating the viability of the homegrown solution.

The 5G technology stack has been developed through collaboration between the Center for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and local manufacturers, with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) providing implementation support. This partnership ensures that India joins an exclusive group of nations with homegrown 4G and 5G capabilities, positioning the country to export telecom solutions globally.

Phased Rollout Strategy Targets Major Metropolitan Areas

BSNL’s 5G deployment will begin in Delhi using a Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) model, as confirmed by CMD Robert J. Ravi. The initial phase will focus on major metropolitan areas and state capitals where the company maintains significant market presence, including Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.

The company has already initiated 5G infrastructure testing in several state capitals, with tower sites becoming operational in Jaipur, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Bhopal, Kolkata, Patna, Hyderabad, and Chennai. These sites primarily consist of upgraded 4G towers, demonstrating the seamless transition capability of BSNL’s network architecture.

Spectrum Allocation and Technical Specifications

BSNL will utilize the 900 MHz and 3.3 GHz spectrum bands to deliver 5G Standalone (SA) services, providing comprehensive coverage across urban and rural areas. The company has received government approval for spectrum allocation through equity infusion, eliminating the need for expensive spectrum auctions that burden private operators.

The 5G network will initially target 100,000 subscribers and include 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) services, offering high-speed internet connectivity for homes and businesses. The indigenous technology supports both enhanced mobile broadband and mission-critical applications, particularly benefiting rural communities and industries.

Competitive Landscape and Market Positioning

BSNL’s entry into the 5G market comes at a crucial time when private operators have achieved significant 5G coverage. Currently, 5G connectivity is available in 779 out of 783 districts across India, with over 460,000 5G base stations deployed by Jio and Airtel since their October 2022 launches.

Despite holding only 7.99% market share as of December 2024, BSNL aims to capture 25% of India’s mobile market by end-2025. The company’s 5G launch strategy focuses on leveraging its extensive rural presence and competitive pricing to attract subscribers from private operators, particularly in underserved areas.

Government Support and Financial Backing

The government has allocated over Rs 89,000 crore for BSNL’s revival, including Rs 80,000 crore specifically for network modernization and 5G deployment. This substantial investment demonstrates the government’s commitment to maintaining a strong public sector presence in telecommunications while reducing dependence on foreign technology vendors.

The funding supports not only infrastructure development but also the creation of domestic manufacturing capabilities, ensuring long-term sustainability of India’s telecom equipment supply chain. This strategic approach aligns with the “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” initiative, promoting self-reliance in critical technology sectors.

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Vendor Selection and Implementation Partners

BSNL has shortlisted three companies for its 5G deployment after an extensive tender process. Tejas Networks, already engaged in BSNL’s 4G rollout, leads the competition alongside Lekha Wireless and Galore Network. The company plans to work with both primary and secondary 5G-as-a-Service providers to ensure network redundancy and reliability.

The implementation will be jointly managed by TCS and C-DOT, leveraging their expertise in large-scale network deployments. This partnership ensures seamless integration between 4G and 5G services while maintaining the indigenous character of the technology solution.

BSNL 5G Future Prospects and Industry Impact

BSNL’s 5G launch represents more than just another network deployment—it symbolizes India’s technological sovereignty in telecommunications. The success of this indigenous 5G network could position India as a global exporter of telecom solutions, particularly to developing nations seeking cost-effective alternatives to Western technology.

The company’s focus on rural connectivity and affordable pricing could democratize 5G access across India, bridging the digital divide that has historically limited technology adoption in smaller cities and villages. As BSNL prepares for its 5G journey, the entire telecommunications industry watches closely, recognizing that this launch could fundamentally alter India’s competitive landscape.

BSNL’s 5G network promises to deliver not just faster connectivity, but also a testament to India’s growing capabilities in cutting-edge technology development and implementation.