Sanjay Dhotre, minister of state for communications, said on Wednesday that the state-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) expects to complete the rollout of its 4G wireless service in 18-24 months. In a written reply to the Lok Sabha, the minister also stated that the government has no plans to privatize BSNL.
“In this regard, BSNL will conform to all relevant government laws, guidelines, or public procurement orders, including rule 144(xi) of the General Financial Rules, 2017,” he said.
The decision by BSNL to allow local equipment companies to bid for its 4G equipment after passing quality checks on their goods would open the door for domestic players, reducing India’s reliance on foreign companies. The government stated in January that only companies registered and headquartered in India are eligible to bid for BSNL’s 4G core network.
Dhotre said on Wednesday that the Union cabinet approved the BSNL and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) revival plans in October 2019. Administrative spectrum allocation for 4G services by budgetary allocation to BSNL, a voluntary retirement programmed to reduce employee costs, and asset monetisation were among the measures taken.
Moreover the government approved BSNL’s revival plan, which includes administrative allotment of spectrum for 4G services through budgetary allocation to the company. In response to another query, Dhotre claimed that the telecom department has no plans to draught legislation to govern internet shutdowns in the country at this time.
