The government-owned company BSNL is making major preparations ahead of its 5G launch. Soon, it will be much easier for people to buy BSNL SIM cards
and recharge their mobile phones. Customers will be able to visit their nearest post office to get a SIM and recharge their mobile number.
This is possible because BSNL and the Postal Department have signed an agreement to expand mobile connectivity across the country.
This initiative will especially benefit people in remote areas, making BSNL services more accessible.
Leveraging Over 1.65 Lakh Post Offices
India has more than 165,000 post offices, with networks covering cities, towns, and villages.
According to media reports, these post offices will now sell BSNL SIM cards and recharge plans.
This will make BSNL services available to people who previously found it difficult to access them. Currently, upgrading BSNL SIMs remains a challenge, as users with older SIMs often have to visit BSNL offices.
In contrast, competitors like Airtel and Jio provide these services at smaller, more convenient locations.
Post Offices as Points of Sale
Post offices will serve as Points of Sale (PoS) for BSNL SIMs and recharge plans. This will make it easier for people, especially in villages, to connect with BSNL services.
Villagers already visit post offices for various government schemes, so adding BSNL services there offers them another convenient service.
BSNL 5G Preparations Underway
BSNL is also preparing for its 5G network launch. Reports suggest that Delhi and Mumbai could see BSNL 5G services by December this year.
The company is developing this network using fully indigenous technology. However, the project has faced delays.
According to TRAI data, BSNL has been losing customers due to a weaker network, with many users switching to alternatives like Jio and Airtel.
