Jio tariff move, new 4G operators to up marketshare: BSNL

The new tariff plan of Reliance Jio charging 6 paise per minute for voice calls made to cellular networks of rival operators will act as a blessing for Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL). Apart from this, the upcoming 4G cellular services will also help the ailing PSU telecom giant increase the market share, feels BSNL Bengal Circle CGM Ramakant Sharma.
“We see a silver lining. We expect 3-4% gain in marketshare from our current levels due to Jio’s announcement,” Sharma told reporters here. BSNL holds a marketshare of about 6% in Bengal circle, which Sharma expects to increase to around 10%. To take on Jio, BSNL has unveiled a plan of Rs 108 for 28days of unlimited free calls to any network and 1GB data per day.
Meanwhile, BSNL would become the last telecom network to start 4G network service in Kolkata. The GM gave assurance to start the 4G network within two months as soon as it receives the spectrum. “Discussions are made in the Cabinet-level regarding 4G spectrum and very soon we hope we will be getting the 4G spectrum,” said Sharma.