Cabinet Approves ₹6,000 cr Package for BSNL & MTNL 4G Expansion
In a significant move to accelerate the 4G network expansion of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL), the Union Cabinet has approved a financial package of ₹6,000 crore. This package aims to improve connectivity and provide better network services for consumers across the country. As per reports, around one lakh 4G sites will be set up to enhance mobile coverage and speed.
The financial package, which is a significant boost for the state-owned telecom operators, will enable BSNL and MTNL to expand their 4G network footprint, bridge the digital divide, and provide better services to their customers. The Cabinet’s decision is expected to have a positive impact on the telecom sector, which has been witnessing intense competition and consolidation in recent times.
According to sources, the additional ₹6,000 crore required to fully fund the expansion will be required to set up the 4G sites and enhance the overall network infrastructure of the two telecom operators. The funds will be used to purchase equipment, install new sites, and upgrade existing infrastructure to enable seamless 4G services.
The approval of the package is seen as a major relief for BSNL and MTNL, which have been struggling to compete with private telecom operators such as Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and Reliance Jio. The two state-owned operators have been facing financial difficulties and have been seeking government support to revamp their network infrastructure and improve their services.
The Cabinet’s decision to approve the financial package is also seen as a step towards bridging the digital divide in the country. With the expansion of 4G network, rural areas will have better connectivity, and the digital divide between urban and rural India will be narrowed.
The approval of the package is also expected to have a positive impact on the economy. Improved connectivity and better network services will enable businesses to operate more efficiently, and the growth of e-commerce and digital payments will get a boost.
The Cabinet’s decision to approve the financial package is a significant step towards revamping the telecom sector in India. The government has been taking steps to support the sector, including the recent announcement of a 10-year moratorium on spectrum payments for new telecom operators.
In conclusion, the approval of the ₹6,000 crore financial package for BSNL and MTNL is a significant move that will enable the two state-owned telecom operators to expand their 4G network footprint, improve connectivity, and provide better services to their customers. The package will also have a positive impact on the economy, and the growth of e-commerce and digital payments will get a boost.
