BSNL’s 4G Network to Upgrade to 5G in 6–8 Months: Scindia
New Delhi: BSNL’s indigenously developed 4G network will be upgraded to 5G within the next six to eight months, Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced on Monday.
Speaking at the Kautilya Economic Enclave 2025, Scindia highlighted India’s entry into the elite global club of 4G technology, previously dominated by just five companies — Huawei, ZTE, Samsung, Nokia, and Ericsson — based in Sweden, Finland, South Korea, and China.
He recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 92,564 towers connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Bharuch to Arunachal Pradesh using India’s own domestic 4G standard.
“Today, India has its own 4G standard — a testament to our innovation capabilities,” Scindia said. “But we will not stop there. In the next six to eight months, these 4G towers will be upgraded to 5G, enabling end-to-end 5G coverage across the country.”
The minister also noted that geopolitical turbulence has intensified over the past five years, leading to trade protectionism, while climate shocks are increasing economic vulnerabilities and inflation pressures worldwide.
“This raises a vital question: where does prosperity lie?” he said. “Turbulence is not merely a disruptor; it can also be a catalyst. In this context, India has acted as a catalyst, achieving nearly 7.8% GDP growth in Q1 of FY25-26.”
Scindia emphasized India’s growing influence on the global stage: “India has become a fulcrum for the Global South. In an age of uncertainty, India is not just a destination — it is the direction, the voice, the mission. Those seeking prosperity in turbulent times should look to India for opportunities.”
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines, he highlighted India’s thriving innovation ecosystem. “Global tech majors, domestic startups, and entrepreneurs are driving breakthroughs here. India now hosts the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturing industry and is pioneering the communications, AI, and semiconductor value chains.”
Scindia added that the upcoming India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025 will showcase this innovation, with delegations from 150 countries, around 7,000 delegates, 1,500 exhibitors, over 1,000 4G and 5G use cases, and developments in AI, quantum computing, and emerging technologies.
