In a significant development for India’s digital landscape, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has teamed up with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) for a massive ₹15,000 crore project to deploy 4G services throughout the country. This strategic alliance aims to revolutionize internet connectivity by delivering high-speed services to millions of users.
Expanding 4G Network in Rural Areas
TCS, renowned for its technological prowess, will spearhead the creation of a robust 4G network for BSNL. This initiative is poised to enhance India’s digital infrastructure, offering faster and more reliable internet access. With this partnership, TCS and BSNL are set to play a pivotal role in driving the nation’s digital transformation, making high-speed internet a reality for a broader audience.
This collaboration underscores the commitment of both companies to support the government’s vision of a digitally empowered India. By leveraging TCS’s expertise in cutting-edge technology and BSNL’s extensive reach, the project promises to bridge the digital divide and propel the country towards a more connected future.
Establishing Data Centres and Network Deployment
As part of their collaboration, TCS is establishing extensive data centres in four regions across India. These data centres are crucial for supporting the 4G infrastructure and ensuring smooth network operations and maintenance.
The deployment plan includes a comprehensive 4G and future 5G network rollout nationwide. BSNL has already installed over 9,000 towers for 4G services and aims to expand this by installing 4G services at an additional 100,000 sites, targeting full-scale rollout by August 2024.
Collaborative Efforts and Strategic Plans
In addition to TCS, Tejas Networks and ITI, both government-owned entities, have secured substantial orders from BSNL. These companies, along with TCS, are working to deploy a scalable 4G network that can transition to 5G technology seamlessly. The combined efforts represent orders amounting to nearly ₹19,000 crore.
This partnership underscores TCS’s commitment to leveraging technology for enhanced connectivity and digital inclusion across India. With a market cap of ₹14.08 lakh crore as of June 9, 2024, TCS will undertake this transformative project in collaboration with BSNL and the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT).
Importance for India’s Digital Future
The deployment of a 4G network by BSNL and TCS marks a significant step in bridging the digital divide and enhancing connectivity across India. This initiative aims to extend high-speed internet services to rural and remote areas, fostering economic growth, digital literacy, and education. Additionally, it paves the way for a future transition to 5G, aligning with India’s vision of digital empowerment for society.