BSNL Prepares Indigenous 5G Push as 4G Network Shows Results
BSNL says its 4G network is meeting expectations as the state-owned carrier prepares to expand indigenous 5G services. The government is backing the rollout with 25,000 additional towers already ordered and another 25,000–50,000 being considered. BSNL and Vodafone Idea are testing intra-circle roaming, while a possible inter-circle deal is still under discussion, and BSNL has partnered with Submer on sovereign AI-ready data centre infrastructure.
At IMC 2026, BSNL’s Vivek Dua said the carrier’s 4G rollout is meeting intended performance and will keep growing. That progress, he indicated, sets the stage for an indigenous 5G expansion, with customers potentially taking pride in a domestic network. The government has ordered 25,000 more towers and may add 25,000–50,000.
BSNL and Vodafone Idea are trialing intra-circle roaming; inter-circle talks continue. BSNL also partnered with Submer to assess data-centre infrastructure suited to sovereign AI needs. Its Vani chatbot now links to core network data and supports regional languages.
Expanded 4G and prospective 5G coverage could bring better mobile access to rural and underserved users, while local-language support may make troubleshooting easier for non-English speakers. Roaming trials with Vodafone Idea might improve connectivity where one network is weak, though outcomes depend on commercial agreements. The Submer partnership may support domestic AI and data-centre capacity, potentially benefiting enterprises and public digital services. Overall, consumers and businesses could see gradual improvements, but actual impact may hinge on execution, affordability, and network availability.