BIG worry for Mukesh Ambani's Jio as BSNL strengthens 4G network, set to launch 5G in...
November 30,2024In a major challenge for Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Jio -- India's leading telecom provider -- state-owned BSNL has strengthened its 4G network across the country, and its eyeing to roll out its 5G services by next year. According to information shared by Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, BSNL has installed over 50,000 4G sites since the roll out of its 4G services in September 2022.
Out of these, 41,957 sites are currently operational as of October 2024, the minister revealed during the ongoing Parliament session.
In a statement, BSNL said the work on its 5G network is advancing at a rapid pace and trial phases are nearly complete, adding that its 5G rollout is focused on self-reliance, embodying the spirit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.
The government-owned telecom provider said most of its 4G sites across the country are ready for operational use and all of them will be activated soon, providing users with improved connectivity and faster internet access. BSNL has hired the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) for the strategic rollout of its nationwide 4G network. The BCG has shared interim reports with BSNL top management as the provider prepares for a wider rollout of its 4G services and the future rollout of 5G.
Additionally, BSNL is also developing an AI-powered chatbot to enhance its customer support, officials said.
Speaking about the status of BSNL's 5G services, Scindia said work is going on at a rapid pace, and stressed that the state-owned provider is focused on providing a fast and reliable network to users, Recently, the minister also made a video call using the BSNL 5G network.