Today’s telecom news includes announcements on BSNL, DoT, Tata Group, Nelco, Lunar Holdco, Elveo Mobile, Lynk Global, Omnispace, Airtel Africa, Starlink, among others.
BSNL Unveils ₹77,000 Crore Network Expansion Blueprint
BSNL has proposed a five-year capital expenditure plan of ₹77,000 crore to modernize and expand its nationwide network, including 2 lakhs additional 4G sites and 5G deployment in high-traffic regions. The Department of Telecommunications has submitted the roadmap to a parliamentary panel, with the plan targeting 98 percent nationwide coverage and operational breakeven by FY29. BSNL, which took operational control of MTNL in January 2025, reported a consolidated net loss of ₹1,280 crore in Q1 FY27. The proposed investment is substantially larger than BSNL’s ₹26,022 crore capital expenditure in FY25. The expansion is expected to be supported partly through monetization of non-core assets owned by BSNL and MTNL.
Tata Group’s Nelco Puts $20 Million Into Elveo Satellite Strategy
Tata Group satellite communications company Nelco has invested $20 million in Lunar Holdco, strengthening its position in direct-to-device satellite connectivity and IoT services. The investment is structured through compulsorily convertible debentures and is linked to Elveo Mobile, the company formed through the merger of Lynk Global and Omnispace. Nelco’s investment is intended to support satellite-based connectivity for smartphones, IoT devices and enterprise applications across markets including India and South Asia. The transaction gives Nelco an equity-linked position in Elveo while aligning it with combined spectrum and satellite capabilities. The move builds on Nelco’s earlier relationship with Omnispace and expands its participation in the emerging satellite-to-device and 5G non-terrestrial network market.
Airtel Africa Makes Starlink Mobile Commercial Debut in DRC
Airtel Africa has commercially launched Starlink Mobile in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, becoming the first operator in Africa to introduce the satellite-to-mobile service commercially. The offering combines Airtel’s terrestrial network with SpaceX’s Starlink satellite technology to extend connectivity beyond conventional mobile coverage. The service is aimed at customers in remote areas and can support transport, logistics, healthcare, agriculture, mining and humanitarian operations. Eligible customers can register through the MyAirtel App for an introductory 30-day free trial, after which access will continue through eligible Airtel data bundles. The launch represents a major step in Africa’s direct-to-device connectivity market, with further capabilities expected as the technology develops and regulatory approvals are secured across additional markets.
SHAFANA FAZAL
