BSNL 5G Spectrum Allocation: DoT Grants ₹61,000 Crore, Trials Begin in New Delhi

By | April 8, 2025

The Indian government has taken a major step to modernize the country’s telecom sector. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has allocated 5G spectrum worth ₹61,000 crore to Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL). This move boosts the state-owned telecom operator and helps it compete with private players like Jio, Airtel, and Vi.

As per The Economic Times, BSNL now holds rights to two critical bands—700 MHz and 3300 MHz. These frequencies are essential for delivering reliable 5G services in both urban and rural areas. Following the allocation, BSNL launched its 5G trial runs in cities like New Delhi. Some towers are expected to go live by June 2025, paving the way for a phased national rollout.

BSNL’s 5G Plans Gain Momentum

BSNL has often lagged behind its private competitors in adopting newer technologies. However, this spectrum allocation marks a turning point. The government has shown strong confidence in BSNL’s potential to scale up its infrastructure.

The 700 MHz band offers long-range coverage and better building penetration. It suits rural and semi-urban zones. The 3300 MHz mid-band delivers higher speeds, ideal for dense city areas. Together, these bands allow BSNL to expand coverage and improve internet quality.

The current trials in Delhi help the company fine-tune network settings and test user experience before a wider launch.

BSNL Expands 4G Network with 5G-Ready Towers

While building its 5G network, BSNL continues to strengthen its 4G presence. The company plans to install over one lakh 4G towers across India. Nearly 80,000 are already active.

These towers are built with future upgrades in mind. They can be easily converted to support 5G through software and hardware updates. This ensures a smoother and more cost-efficient transition to 5G.

Partnerships and the NaaS Model Fuel Deployment

BSNL is rolling out its 5G network using the Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) model. This setup lets the company work with private firms for technology support without losing ownership. It blends public sector control with private-sector speed and innovation.

At the same time, other companies are progressing too. Tidal Wave recently deployed a private 5G network for Coal India using the 3500 MHz band. This reflects how public and private players are jointly driving India’s 5G expansion.

Affordable Plans Help BSNL Attract Users

After private telecom providers hiked prices in late 2024, BSNL stood out by keeping its rates low. While Jio, Airtel, and Vi raised their tariffs, BSNL continued offering generous data and longer validity plans.

This strategy appeals to budget-conscious users—like students, small business owners, and residents of smaller towns. BSNL’s affordability gives it an edge in a price-sensitive market.

With 5G on the horizon, the operator is expected to attract even more users. Faster speeds and better reliability will make its offerings even more attractive.

Satellite Connectivity Will Fill the Gaps

BSNL is also working on satellite-based communication. The company announced a direct-to-device satellite service aimed at remote or hard-to-reach regions. These include hilly terrains, coastal areas, and disaster-prone zones.

Once launched, this service will allow users to connect without cellular towers. It’s expected to enhance communication during emergencies and provide coverage in places where traditional networks fail.

This project adds another layer to BSNL’s service portfolio. Combined with its terrestrial network, satellite services can help deliver nationwide connectivity.

BSNL Prepares for a Strong Comeback

This ₹61,000 crore spectrum boost marks a fresh start for BSNL. For years, the company trailed private rivals in innovation and speed. Now, it’s catching up fast—with government support and a smart deployment plan.

If BSNL keeps scaling up its network and maintaining affordable rates, it could reshape the telecom industry. Its progress from slow adopter to 5G trailblazer is both symbolic and strategic.

By June 2025, BSNL’s first 5G towers will likely go live. As that date nears, all eyes will be on whether the state-run giant can deliver on its promise. This time, BSNL isn’t chasing the future—it’s aiming to lead it.