(a) the steps taken by the Government to launch BSNL’s 4G network and the time by when it is likely to be done;
(b) the details of the districts proposed to be covered under the said 4G network in the first phase, State/UT-wise including Bhavnagar and Botad districts?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS, EDUCATION AND
ELECTRONICS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
(SHRI SANJAY DHOTRE)
(a) & (b) The Government on 23.10.2019 has approved administrative allotment of spectrum for 4G services with Government support to Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) as part of its revival package. BSNL has floated the Expression of Interest (EOI) on 01.01.2021 for prior registration/Proof of Concept (PoC) from Indian Companies interested in participating in BSNL’s upcoming 4G tender.
BSNL has also informed that it has already introduced 4G services on a limited scale at few locations using its existing spectrum for 3G services. As on 31.12.2020, a total of 8,629 4G e-Nodes are operational in BSNL mobile network.
BSNL plans to roll out 4G services on large scale after finalisation of tender for procurement of the 4G equipment.