In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a self-reliant India, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has launched its own 4G technology network. This announcement highlights the nation’s push towards technological independence.
At a press conference, Union Minister for Communications, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, shared details about the inauguration of over 97,500 mobile 4G towers. This project costs ₹37,000 crore and will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister in Jharsuguda, Odisha, on September 27.
BSNL’s Swadeshi 4G network is built on a completely homegrown technological stack, which is also ready for upgrades to 5G. Scindia emphasized this achievement as a significant move towards a developed India, showcasing the nation’s ability to create advanced telecom systems locally.
- **Radio Access Network (RAN)**: Developed by Tejas Networks.
- **Core Network**: Created by C-DOT.
- **System Integration**: Handled by TCS.
Scindia noted, “BSNL’s Swadeshi 4G launch marks a historic step towards Viksit Bharat. It affirms India’s capability in designing and deploying cutting-edge telecom networks.”
Besides BSNL’s efforts, Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have also installed over 4,700 mobile towers. Additionally, 14,180 towers funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) project will connect 26,700 villages that previously lacked service. This expansion aims to bring connectivity to over 2 million new subscribers.
- **What will this enable?** Access to citizen-centric applications at the click of a button.
With this rollout, India joins the ranks of the top five countries to develop and implement a fully indigenous telecom technology. While similar projects in other nations took decades, Indian engineers achieved this milestone in just three years. Dr. Neeraj Mittal from the Department of Telecommunications believes this will place India as a key player in the global telecom industry.
This year also marks BSNL’s Silver Jubilee. A. Robert J Ravi, CMD of BSNL, expressed pride in leading the country into the 4G era, emphasizing their commitment to seamless connectivity and digital empowerment.
This achievement reflects a broader trend in many developing countries where local technology development is becoming essential for growth. Investing in local solutions not only boosts the economy but ensures that technology serves the unique needs of its citizens.
For a deeper dive into BSNL’s initiatives and the significance of India’s self-reliance in technology, check out this report by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology [here](https://www.meity.gov.in).
