Vodafone Idea and BSNL agree to nationwide network sharing

Vodafone Idea (Vi) and state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) have reached an agreement to share network infrastructure across all 22 telecom circles in India. Following a meeting between Vodafone Idea CEO Abhijit Kishore and BSNL Chairman Robert J. Ravi, the partnership will include intra-circle and inter-circle roaming, as well as the sharing of mobile towers, optical fiber cables, and transmission equipment.

The deal aims to optimize resource utilization and reduce capital and operational expenditures for both companies. BSNL can leverage Vi’s urban network to improve reach, while Vodafone Idea can utilize BSNL’s extensive fiber and tower presence in rural and strategic border areas. This collaboration is intended to help both operators compete more effectively against market leaders Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel by accelerating 4G and 5G rollouts without massive new investments.

Separately, Vodafone Idea is making progress in securing debt financing for its ₹45,000 crore capital expenditure plan. The company has reported substantial progress in discussions with lenders, including a State Bank of India-led consortium, to fund its network density enhancements and 5G services.