The state-run telecom operator, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) said it has added 2.3 million mobile connections during the month of August 2016. With its PAN India coverage, BSNL’s new milestone in mobile segment is a positive sign of scaling new heights.
BSNL 3G service is present across the 22 telecom circles. Interestingly, 12 out of 22 telecom circles have made a good contribution and achieved the assigned target. Starting from Assam, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, UP (East), UP (West) to Uttaranchal, BSNL has got a tremendous positive response in the sale of new SIMS.
Starting from June 2015, BSNL has been getting good response due to its ZERO ROAMING charges across India in prepaid and postpaid segments. Further, mobile number portability (MNP) is also a big addition.
A Trend Setter:
The lowest 3G data tariff and ZERO roaming charges across India are the prime factors contributing BSNL’s success in the mobile segment. Though low at speed, BSNL is the front runner to challenge Reliance Jio’s unlimited free calling feature. Moreover, BSNL’s Student Special Plan has been a crowd puller among the youth by offering 1GB free 3G data apart from the lowest voice call rates.
BSNL’s new 3G plans such as ₹ 1099 unlimited 3G data pack, 10GB ₹ 549 data pack have been an instant success as there is no speed restriction. There are a number of initiatives taken by BSNL to counter the other telecom players. Some of them are doubling the validity period and incorporating unlimited voice calling feature to any network across India.
Realistic Target?
BSNL CMD said - “As far as challenge is concerned, we cannot wish it away. I believe, BSNL is in a position to match Reliance Jio’s tariffs most successfully, because we are an incumbent operator. We are landline and optical fibre operator so our broadband tariff rides on our own network. We don’t have to start procuring, investing and then come out with offerings.”
Going by the excellent feedback, BSNL has set a target of 3 million new mobile connections in the coming months in spite of Reliance Jio’s threat. As per the BSNL CMD Mr. Anupam Shrivastava, the state-run telecom will adopt a aggressive stance on tariffs.
