As Jio, Airtel, and Vi (Vodafone Idea) have increased their tariffs, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is witnessing a surge in new customers. The state-owned telecom operator, which has struggled to compete in recent years, is now benefiting from the tariff hikes by private operators. Reports indicate that on July 3 and July 4, BSNL saw a significant increase in new customers due to the 11-25% hike in tariffs by private telecom companies.
Customer Migration to BSNL
According to an ET report, BSNL has gained a considerable number of new customers in recent weeks. The primary reason behind this surge is the recent tariff hikes by Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea. The rate increases have led to social media backlash, with hashtags like ‘BoycottJio’ and ‘BSNL ki ghar wapsi’ trending. Since the tariff hike, approximately 250,000 people have switched to BSNL using Mobile Number Portability (MNP).
Affordable Tariffs Attract Users
BSNL has reportedly acquired around 2.5 million new connections. The main reason behind this growth is that BSNL’s tariffs remain affordable for low-income users. While private operators have increased their tariffs by 11-24%, BSNL’s rates are still competitive. For example, Vi’s annual data plan saw a maximum increase of ₹600, and Airtel and Reliance’s 365-day validity annual packs are now priced at ₹3,599. In contrast, BSNL’s similar pack costs ₹2,395. Similarly, the average price of 28-day packs from private operators is ₹189-199, whereas BSNL’s packs with similar benefits start at ₹108.
Transition to 4G and 5G
BSNL is rapidly moving towards a 4G rollout, and the government plans to switch it to 5G soon. It will be interesting to see how users’ preferences shift towards BSNL as it upgrades to a better network. The question remains whether BSNL will maintain its affordable tariffs even after upgrading to 4G and 5G networks.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
