BSNL selects C-DoT, TCS, and Tejas as 4G vendors

Reportedly, India's BSNL will create its long-awaited 4G network utilizing technologies from the Center for Development of Telematics (C-DoT), Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Tejas Networks. BSNL would be compelled to employ domestic components for the 4G network, according to the Indian government.

The BSNL network would be the first in India to be developed entirely by indigenous providers. HFCL, L&T, and Tech Mahindra were among the other companies competing in the tender. During the testing, they backed out due to integration and technical challenges with key technology given by Pertsol, another Indian firm.

Except for TCS, all of the vendors chose Pertsol's core solution for the test. They had all hoped to do trials with C-DoT after facing technical challenges but were unhappy to learn that C-DoT had already chosen TCS as a partner on the BSNL project. Controversies and delays have hampered BSNL's tender for the 4G deployment.

Earlier this year, the business issued an e-tender for the installation of 57,000 4G sites around the country. It was looking for proof of concept from Indian enterprises and consortiums interested in competing in the next 4G auction. Later, BSNL sent letters of intent to five leading technology vendors in India: L&T, Tech Mahindra, ITI, TCS, and HFCL.

By 2022, BSNL plans to upgrade its 4G network to the non-standalone (NSA) version of 5G, and by 2023, to the standalone (SA) version of 5G. However, with nominated 4G network vendors still performing tests, it seems unclear that it would be able to achieve this deadline. BSNL is unlikely to be able to establish a 4G network for another year, while private-sector businesses are preparing for a 5G debut this year.