As 2026 begins, one question continues to dominate the minds of telecom users across India: Where is BSNL’s 5G? While private players like Jio and Airtel have aggressively rolled out 5G services, BSNL’s absence has led many to believe that the state-run telecom operator is lagging far behind. However, the reality is quite different.
According to industry insights, the delay in BSNL’s 5G rollout is not due to inefficiency, but rather a well-thought-out strategic decision. At a time when private telecom companies are steadily increasing the prices of their 4G plans and nudging users toward costlier 5G services, BSNL has chosen a different path.
Focus on Affordable 4G Expansion
BSNL is currently prioritizing the expansion of affordable 4G services across the country. The company has already launched 4G services at more than 97,000 locations nationwide, with plans to further expand coverage in the coming months. This move aims to strengthen BSNL’s presence in rural, semi-urban, and underserved regions where high-speed but affordable internet remains a necessity.
The Strategy Behind the Delay
While Jio and Airtel push premium 5G plans, BSNL is betting on the fact that a large section of India’s population — including students and working professionals — does not require 5G at all times. Many users already rely on high-speed fiber broadband at home or offices, making cost-effective mobile 4G plans a more practical choice.
A Surprise for Private Players
BSNL’s “surprise plan” for Jio and Airtel lies in its pricing strategy. By offering low-cost 4G plans with wider reach, BSNL is positioning itself as a value-for-money alternative in a market increasingly dominated by expensive data packs. This could potentially attract price-sensitive users who are unwilling to pay a premium for 5G services they may not fully utilize.
What About BSNL 5G?
BSNL has not ruled out 5G altogether. Instead, the company is reportedly working on strengthening its network foundation first, ensuring that when 5G is introduced, it is more stable, scalable, and cost-effective.
The Bigger Picture
While BSNL may appear late in the 5G race, its strategy reflects a long-term vision focused on inclusivity and affordability. In a country where digital access varies widely, BSNL’s emphasis on affordable 4G could turn out to be a game-changing move — and a real challenge for private telecom giants.
In the evolving telecom landscape of 2026, BSNL’s slow-and-steady approach may just redefine competition in India’s mobile data market.