Charles EstherBharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is preparing to launch 5G services in India, but only after the successful stabilization of its 4G network.
Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia recently announced this phased approach as part of the government’s broader digital infrastructure strategy.
Massive 4G Expansion Underway Across India
BSNL is currently rolling out a massive 4G infrastructure upgrade across the country.
According to the Minister, the telecom giant has installed over 90,000 4G towers, with 76,000 of them already live.
The company aims to have 100,000 towers fully operational by May or June 2025.
Only after the completion and stabilization of this network will BSNL move forward with the 5G rollout.
5G Rollout Expected to Begin Mid-2025
Once the 4G network is fully functional and stable, BSNL plans to kick off its 5G services.
The anticipated launch timeframe for 5G is June 2025.
This move reflects BSNL’s cautious yet calculated approach to ensure quality service and reliable connectivity for users.
Made-in-India Technology to Power BSNL’s 5G Network
In line with the Indian government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative, BSNL’s 5G network will be built using fully indigenous technology.
This means that both the hardware and software powering the 5G services will be developed and produced domestically.
This step not only promotes local innovation but also reduces dependence on foreign vendors.
Government Support with Major Financial Package
The central government has backed BSNL’s ambitious expansion plans with a capital expenditure package worth ₹6,982 crore.
This funding will be used to enhance both 4G and 5G infrastructure, ensuring better connectivity in urban, rural, and remote areas.
The investment aims to strengthen the state-run telecom provider’s competitiveness in a market dominated by private players.
Why Stabilizing 4G First Matters
Experts believe that stabilizing the 4G network is a critical step before introducing 5G.
A stable 4G base ensures seamless fallback options for users and supports smooth handovers between network generations.
It also lays the groundwork for 5G use cases like smart cities, IoT, and advanced mobile broadband.
What This Means for Indian Telecom Users
BSNL’s 5G entry, though later than private telecom operators like Jio and Airtel, is a significant milestone for India’s telecom sector.
The launch will increase competition, potentially bringing down data costs while improving coverage.
Moreover, BSNL’s focus on rural connectivity ensures that even underserved areas will benefit from next-gen telecom services.
Conclusion
BSNL’s strategy to prioritize 4G stability before launching 5G is a smart, future-focused decision.
With government support, domestic technology, and a clear timeline, BSNL is on track to play a key role in India’s digital transformation.
The wait for BSNL 5G may be longer, but it promises to be worth it for millions of users across the nation.
