NEW DELHI, India — Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has announced a series of new digital initiatives, connectivity measures and Independence Day offers aimed at improving network coverage, expanding broadband access and giving customers more digital entertainment and self-service options.
- BSNL has ordered more than 26,300 additional 4G BTS sites for deployment across India.
- The Re 1 Freedom 2.0 offer provides daily data, SMS and unlimited voice calls for 24 days.
- The new Fibre Freedom Plan offers speeds of up to 200 Mbps and 5,000 GB monthly data.
- BSNL has also introduced an upgraded Selfcare app with AI chatbot, voice search and entertainment services.
BSNL expands 4G network across India
The state-owned telecom operator said more than 26,300 additional 4G Base Transceiver Station sites have been ordered for deployment across the country. The expansion is intended to strengthen connectivity in towns, villages and remote locations.
BSNL said its existing 4G network has also undergone comprehensive optimisation. The company said the work is aimed at improving coverage, data speeds, call quality and the overall customer experience.
The network uses an indigenous technology stack that can be upgraded to 5G, according to BSNL. The approach links the company’s immediate 4G expansion with its longer-term plans for next-generation connectivity.
BSNL Freedom offer brings new prepaid benefits
For new customers, BSNL has introduced the Re 1 Freedom 2.0 offer as part of its Independence Day promotions.
Under the offer, subscribers receive 1 GB of data every day, 100 SMS per day and unlimited voice calling. The package comes with a validity of 24 days.
The promotional plan is positioned as a customer-focused offer designed to make mobile connectivity more accessible while BSNL continues expanding its network footprint.
Fibre Freedom plan targets broadband users
BSNL has also launched the Fibre Freedom Plan at a special introductory price of ₹1,111 per month. The broadband package provides internet speeds of up to 200 Mbps and a monthly data allowance of 5,000 GB.
The plan also includes access to more than 25 premium OTT platforms, bringing broadband connectivity and digital entertainment together under a single offering.
The initiative comes as BSNL seeks to make its broadband services more attractive to households that increasingly depend on high-speed internet for entertainment and other digital activities.
New BSNL Selfcare app adds digital features
BSNL has revamped its customer-service application as BSNL Selfcare New for Android and iOS users. The updated platform brings several account-management and support functions into one application.
Customers can use the app to recharge prepaid connections, pay postpaid and landline bills, register complaints and track their status. The platform also allows users to manage Do Not Disturb preferences, review payment history and submit Fibre booking requests.
The updated application includes an AI chatbot and voice search, along with multiple-account management. Customers can also access BSNL Entertainment TV through the platform.
BSNL adds free entertainment service
BSNL mobile subscribers will receive access to around 500 live television channels through BSNL Free Entertainment TV, powered by Tango TV, without an additional charge through the new Selfcare app.
The service also provides on-demand entertainment content that can be accessed through mobile devices. The addition expands the role of the Selfcare application beyond account management and telecom services.
Satellite phone service targets remote locations
BSNL also highlighted its Global Satellite Phone Service, or GSPS, which uses satellite connectivity to provide voice communication in locations where conventional terrestrial mobile networks may not be available.
The service is intended for remote and geographically challenging areas as well as locations where dependable communication is particularly important. Satellite-based connectivity can provide an alternative communication channel in areas where traditional network infrastructure faces limitations.
Annual prepaid plan gets 47 extra days
BSNL has announced another Independence Day benefit for users of its ₹2,399 annual prepaid plan. The company is providing an additional 47 days of validity under the offer.
As a result, the validity of the annual plan will increase from 365 days to 412 days. BSNL said the existing benefits associated with the plan will continue during the extended validity period.
BSNL partners with Polycab for telecom equipment
Alongside its customer-facing initiatives, BSNL has entered into a partnership with Polycab aimed at strengthening domestic telecom manufacturing under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
Under the collaboration, Polycab’s Electronic Manufacturing Services facility will manufacture telecom and networking equipment, including cameras, Optical Network Terminals and routers.
The partnership will use a Hardware-as-a-Service model. BSNL said the approach can support scalable and cost-effective infrastructure deployment while reducing the requirement for heavy upfront investment.
Indigenous manufacturing remains part of BSNL strategy
The Polycab partnership also reflects BSNL’s focus on increasing the role of domestic manufacturing in telecom infrastructure. Producing networking equipment within the country is intended to support the broader objective of strengthening indigenous capabilities.
BSNL said its latest initiatives are aimed at providing affordable, secure and reliable digital services while expanding connectivity across India. The company also reiterated its commitment to serving areas facing difficult geographical and climatic conditions.
What BSNL’s latest initiatives mean for customers
The announcements combine network expansion with new mobile, broadband, entertainment and customer-service features. While additional 4G sites are intended to improve connectivity, the new offers provide customers with additional choices for mobile and broadband services.
The revamped Selfcare app further shifts routine customer interactions towards digital platforms, while satellite connectivity addresses communication requirements in locations where conventional networks may have limited reach.
What happens next for BSNL connectivity?
BSNL’s immediate focus will include deployment of the additional 4G sites, continued optimisation of its existing network and expansion of its digital customer services. The company’s indigenous technology stack also provides a pathway towards future 5G upgrades.
At the same time, the partnership with Polycab is expected to support domestic production of telecom and networking equipment. Together, these initiatives form part of BSNL’s broader effort to expand connectivity while supporting India’s Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat objectives.
What is the BSNL Re 1 Freedom 2.0 offer?
The Re 1 Freedom 2.0 offer for new customers provides 1 GB of daily data, 100 SMS per day and unlimited voice calls for 24 days.
What does the BSNL Fibre Freedom Plan offer?
The Fibre Freedom Plan is priced at an introductory ₹1,111 per month and provides speeds of up to 200 Mbps, 5,000 GB of monthly data and access to more than 25 premium OTT platforms.
