Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited’s (BSNL) indigenously developed 4G network on Saturday from Jharsuguda, Odisha, marking a landmark achievement during the telecom operator’s silver jubilee.
- Digital India & Aatmanirbhar Bharat: The rollout positions India among a select group of countries capable of manufacturing its own telecom equipment, strengthening self-reliance in critical technology.
Network Expansion & Infrastructure
- Over 97,500 mobile towers were commissioned, including 92,600 4G sites, at a cost of approximately ₹37,000 crore, utilizing fully homegrown technology.
- The cloud-based, future-ready network can be seamlessly upgraded to 5G.
- The initiative will provide connectivity to over 26,700 previously unserved villages, including remote and left-wing extremism-affected regions.
Impact on Subscribers and Rural Development
- The launch is expected to add more than 20 lakh new subscribers.
- It will enhance digital participation in rural areas and promote sustainable infrastructure through solar-powered towers.
Strategic and Economic Significance
- PM Modi highlighted Odisha’s potential as a hub for future growth, announcing plans for a semiconductor park.
- BSNL’s swadeshi 4G stack is seen as a symbol of India’s journey “from dependence to confidence,” supporting job creation, exports, and fiscal revival.
Summary
- Event: BSNL’s indigenous 4G network launched in Jharsuguda, Odisha.
- Towers Commissioned: 97,500 (92,600 4G sites).
- Investment: ₹37,000 crore in homegrown technology.
- Connectivity: 26,700+ villages, including remote and Naxal-affected areas.
- Subscribers: 20+ lakh new users expected.
- Future-ready: Cloud-based network, upgradable to 5G.
- Economic Impact: Boosts jobs, exports, fiscal revival; semiconductor park announced in Odisha.
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