BSNL's 4G Upgradation Tender Cancelled, New Process Likely To Disqualify Chinese Companies

The Department of Telecom (DoT) on Wednesday (1 July) cancelled the tender to upgrade BSNL's 4G services. The new tendering process is likely to exclude Chinese companies, Hindustan Times has reported.

This development comes amid an instruction issued by the central government not to use Chinese equipment while upgrading BSNL's 4G services. The upgrade is expected to cost to the tune of Rs 7,000 to Rs 8,000 crore.

As a result, Chinese telecom giants like ZTE and Huawei are likely to be barred from the process.

The tendering process will also encourage the use of equipment made in India to promote the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

It was recently reported that the Indian Railways had cancelled a signalling contract awarded to China Railway Signal and Communication Co Ltd (CRSC), soon after the violent clash in Galwan Valley.

Other action against China includes India banning 59 prominent Chinese apps like Tik Tok, ShareIt and UC Browser over serious security concerns.