Subscribers of Jio, Airtel, and BSNL can now make calls using intra-circle roaming on DBN-funded mobile towers.
The Department of Telecom (DoT) has introduced a new feature that enables Jio, Airtel, and BSNL customers to make calls and access 4G services across any telecom network, in an effort to revolutionize how mobile consumers experience connectivity.
The Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN)-funded Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) service, which has been deployed throughout the country’s telecom towers, aims to reduce connectivity gaps, particularly in rural and isolated areas.
What is the purpose of DBN (Digital Bharat Nidhi)?
The Indian government recently announced the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) program, which aims to improve telecom connectivity in the nation’s underserved and rural areas. The DBN will completely replace the previous Universal Service Obligation Fund, as the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) said in July 2024. DBN’s creation is a component of a larger plan to close the digital divide and advance the goal of Digital India, which aims to make India a knowledge economy and society empowered by technology.
In the past, telecom users could only use towers run by their particular telecom service provider (TSP) to obtain services. Customers of Jio, Airtel, and BSNL can now use DBN-funded towers for smooth connectivity even if their own network towers are out of range thanks to the new ICR service.
This service is being introduced as part of a number of telecom efforts, including National Broadband Mission 2.0 and the Sanchar Sathi mobile app, that were started by Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia.
Telecom firms will no longer need to erect their towers in every location thanks to this advancement, which will enable consumers to make calls and access 4G services via the DBN-supported towers. The program is expected to assist TSPs in reducing operating expenses while guaranteeing the continuous provision of services to their clients, particularly those who reside in remote areas. According to DoT data, this plan will give over 35,400 villages in India 4G coverage via 27,000 DBN-funded towers.
When discussing the importance of the ICR feature, Scindia emphasized how it may help rural communities by allowing users to select different networks for better service. He pointed out that by utilizing shared infrastructure at DBN-funded locations, the three main telecom companies—BSNL, Airtel, and Jio—are collaborating to enhance the telecom experience for millions of people.
The Indian government established the DBN fund under the Telecommunications Act of 2023 in order to improve affordability and access in underserved areas. Users are currently limited to the TSP in charge of the tower installation with DBN capability, even though the ICR service promises a major improvement in network availability. However, as more sites are created as part of this program, access might be extended.
