In a move that strengthens India’s digital connectivity ecosystem, Tata Communications has partnered with state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) to introduce eSIM services across the country. The collaboration leverages Tata Communications’ Move platform, a GSMA-accredited Subscription Management solution, to enable seamless and secure mobile connectivity without the need for physical SIM cards.

This launch not only places BSNL in direct competition with private telecom operators already offering eSIM services but also aligns with India’s growing push towards digital adoption and indigenous telecom infrastructure.

Tata Communications Powers BSNL’s eSIM Rollout

Under this partnership, Tata Communications is deploying its robust digital infrastructure to support BSNL’s nationwide eSIM services. The offering is being delivered through Tata Communications Collaboration Services Private Limited (TCCSPL), ensuring secure provisioning and management of eSIM profiles across BSNL’s extensive subscriber base.

BSNL’s eSIM will support 2G, 3G, and 4G services, enabling customers to activate connectivity by simply scanning a secure QR code. This makes switching operators or activating new connections faster and more convenient, especially for frequent travelers and business users.

Key Benefits of BSNL eSIM Services

Remote Provisioning – Users can activate their eSIM without visiting a store or handling a physical SIM card.

Dual SIM Capability – Customers with dual-SIM handsets can use an eSIM alongside a physical SIM, making it easier to maintain separate work and personal numbers.

International Connectivity – Travelers can seamlessly switch to local operators abroad while keeping their BSNL eSIM active for home connectivity.

Eco-Friendly Move – By reducing the dependency on plastic SIM cards, BSNL’s eSIM service also contributes to sustainable telecom practices.

Strategic Importance for BSNL

The launch of eSIM services marks a milestone for BSNL, which has been working towards expanding and modernising its network infrastructure. According to A. Robert Ravi, Chairman and Managing Director of BSNL, the rollout represents “a strategic advancement in national telecom capabilities,” adding that the partnership enhances flexibility, security, and efficiency for Indian mobile users.

This initiative follows several recent moves by BSNL to boost its competitiveness:

4G Expansion – The company launched its 4G services in Delhi earlier this year.

Partnership with India Post – BSNL signed a one-year MoU to sell SIM cards and offer recharge services via 1.65 lakh post offices, leveraging India Post’s unmatched reach.

Indigenous 4G Infrastructure – Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated BSNL’s fully indigenous 4G network in Odisha, where 97,500 mobile towers built with domestic technology were commissioned at a cost of ₹37,000 crore.

Broader Impact on India’s Telecom Sector

With the entry of BSNL into the eSIM market, Indian telecom users now have wider access to next-generation SIM technology that was previously dominated by private operators. The move also demonstrates India’s growing push for self-reliance in digital infrastructure while ensuring citizens get access to advanced and secure connectivity solutions.

Moreover, Tata Communications’ Move platform positions BSNL to handle future developments in 5G and IoT ecosystems, where eSIMs are expected to play a crucial role in enabling connected devices, smart cities, and industrial automation.

Conclusion

The partnership between Tata Communications and BSNL is more than just a new service launch — it’s a step forward in India’s digital transformation journey. By offering secure, flexible, and user-friendly eSIM services across the nation, BSNL is bridging the gap between private and state-run telecom players while setting the stage for the next era of mobile connectivity.

As India transitions towards indigenous 4G and 5G networks, the rollout of eSIM technology represents a critical milestone in making telecom services more adaptive, sustainable, and future-ready.