Recently, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) unveiled its Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) initiative, featuring 4G mobile sites funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN). The launch was officiated by Union Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya Scindia, alongside the introduction of the Sanchar Saathi App. This collaboration among major telecommunications providers—BSNL, Airtel, and Reliance Jio—aims to utilize shared infrastructure at all DBN-supported locations, thereby addressing the telecommunications deficit in rural and remote regions.
Intra Circle Roaming: A New Opportunity for Users of Reliance Jio, BSNL, and Airtel in India
Users of Reliance Jio, BSNL, and Airtel will now be able to make calls and access various 4G services through DBN-funded mobile towers, regardless of whether their specific service provider has a presence in the area. The ICR initiative facilitates the use of each operator’s infrastructure at these sites, expanding the accessibility of telecommunications services. Previously, network access was restricted to subscribers of the specific provider operating the nearby tower.
The DBN, financed by the Indian government, was established under the Telecommunications Act of 2023 and is focused on enhancing both connectivity and affordability of telecom services. This fund aims to extend telecommunications reach into the more remote and underserved areas of the country.
According to an official press release, the initiative is poised to narrow the telecommunications divide in India, offering uninterrupted 4G access to 35,400 villages across rural and remote landscapes serviced by approximately 27,000 towers. Furthermore, it promises lower capital expenditure for both operators and the government.
In addition to the ICR initiative, the Department of Telecommunications has also launched the Sanchar Saathi App, which is available on both iOS and Android platforms. This app is designed to empower users by providing essential tools for securing their telecom services and tackling telecom fraud. The initiative also introduced the National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0 vision document, which outlines its key goal: to connect 1.7 lakh villages across India.
