- By Prateek Levi
- Tue, 21 Jan 2025 05:00 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
4G Coverage: With the aim of enhancing connectivity experience for mobile users, the Department of Telecom (DoT) has released a new facility that will allow users of Jio, Airtel and BSNL to make calls and access 4G services through any telecom network. The Intra Circle Roaming(ICR) service, which is in place across the nation's telecom towers and funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), commits to building a bridge to connect the gaps, especially with regard to rural and remote areas.
Previously, the user was only able to access a network or its services through towers operated by their respective telecom service provider (TSP). But with the ICR facility in action Jio, Airtel and BSNL customers will be able to use the DBN-funded towers for smooth connectivity, even if the specific tower is not in range.
This introduction to the service comes as a part of several telecom initiatives, launched by the Union Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya Scindia, which also encompasses the Sanchaar Sathi mobile app and National Broadband Mission 2.0.
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This new initiative will enable users to make calls and access 4G services through DBN-supported towers, eliminating the need for telecom companies to set up towers in every location. By using shared infrastructure, telecom service providers (TSPs) can reduce operational costs while ensuring uninterrupted service for customers, even in remote areas. According to data from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), this plan will expand 4G coverage to over 35,400 villages across India, utilizing 27,000 DBN-funded towers.
A Step Towards Better Rural Connectivity
Transport Minister Scindia highlighted the importance of the ICR facility, which will offer rural areas the flexibility to choose networks and access better service. He pointed out that this partnership among major telecom players—BSNL, Airtel, and Jio—leverages shared infrastructure at DBN-funded sites, enhancing telecom services for millions across the country.
DBN is a fund established under the Telecommunications Act, of 2023 and was created by the government to strengthen connectivity and make it affordable for the masses in remote areas of the country. While ICR brings new hope and is a huge step in the right direction, users are currently restricted to those towers only that have DBN support. However, access may expand further as more and more sites come under the purview of this initiative.