Context:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited’s (BSNL) fully indigenous 4G network stack from Jharsuguda, Odisha.

Key Points:

• This step places India among the world’s select five countries capable of providing 4G services using their own indigenous technology.
• The other four countries are: Denmark, Sweden, South Korea, and China.
• With this launch, more than 97,500 4G mobile towers have been activated across the country, of which 92,600 towers are based on BSNL’s 4G technology.
• This 4G network has been developed entirely with Indian technology, with contributions from Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), and Tejas Networks.

Development and Technical Details of the Indigenous 4G Network:

• India’s indigenous 4G stack is a complete ‘network stack’ consisting of Radio Access Network (RAN), core network, and integration.
• Development began in 2020, when BSNL made the bold decision to adopt indigenous solutions instead of foreign equipment.
• It was developed in a record 22 months, meeting global standards.

Coverage Area and Beneficiaries:

• Under this expansion, around 26,700 villages will be provided connectivity, including 2,472 villages in Odisha.
• Naxal-affected and border areas will now be connected, addressing long-standing challenges of digital connectivity.
• BSNL’s existing customers will benefit from high-speed, reliable internet services, enhancing digital inclusion.

Historical Background:

• India’s telecom sector has long relied on foreign technology, particularly during the 2G and 3G eras.
• With 4G, India began taking steps toward self-reliance and indigenization.
• In 2020, BSNL distanced itself from foreign vendors like Huawei due to national security concerns and prioritized indigenous solutions.
• At the G20 Summit (2023), India showcased its indigenous telecom stack, attracting interest from 18 countries.
• Its launch coincided with BSNL’s 25th anniversary (2025), making it a symbolic milestone.

Global Context: Five Countries with Indigenous 4G Technology

Only a few countries have developed indigenous 4G technology, as it is highly complex and costly. India has now entered this “elite club”:

• These countries not only provide 4G services domestically but also export telecom equipment.
• India’s telecom stack is cost-effective (11 cents/GB data rate) and secure, making it attractive for developing nations.