Govt mandates only BSNL, MTNL services in ministries, public departments, CPSUs

The central government has mandated all ministries, public departments and public sector units to use telecom services of state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL).

“The government of India has, inter-alia, approved the mandatory utilisation of capacities of BSNL and MTNL by all ministries/departments of government of India, CPSEs, central autonomous bodies,” a memorandum dated October 12 issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) said.

Following consultation with the finance ministry, the memorandum was issued to all secretaries and departments under the Centre.

The Department of Expenditure’s note accompanying the memorandum mentioned that the decision to mandate the use of BSNL and MTNL telecom service was taken by the Cabinet.