The Silicon Review ^Asia

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is all set to provide telecom services to Mumbai and Delhi. Until now, Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) catered its services in the two metropolitan cities. According to a report in Business Standard, state-owned BSNL will provide both wireless and fixed lines in Mumbai and Delhi on behalf of MTNL on a pilot basis for five to six months, starting from January 1, 2021.

Also, the BSNL is expected to launch 4G services from the two metro cities. As per the daily, the PM's office may examine the proof of concept before the telco launches the 4G. Both the companies have been demanding spectrum to start 4G services to remain competitive in the market. The proof of concept determines whether the equipment supplier is fit to deliver the gears. This process is expected to be completed by mid-2021, after which the tender for sourcing of the telecom equipment will be floated.

According to the latest TRAI report, BSNL and MTNL had a market share of 10.65 percent as of August 31. At the same time, private access service providers held 89.35 percent market share in the same period. The two PSU access service providers had 55.18 percent of the wireline market share as of August 31. The government is desperately looking to revive the beleaguered BSNL and MTNL.