BSNL’s 4G network trial: TCS, Tech Mahindra among shortlisted firms
Domestic tech majors like Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Tech Mahindra, HFCL, and L&T have been shortlisted by state-run BSNL to conduct trials to test their local equipment. These firms will be given four months’ time to conduct the trials and display proof of their 4G network technology, after which the successful ones will be eligible to bid for rolling out BSNL’s 4G network. Traditional global telecom network firms like Nokia, Ericsson, Samsung, Huawei, etc, did not participate in the process for the trials.
Trials are necessary because BSNL has been mandated to use equipment from local firms only for its core network as part of what is called a system integrator-led model.