Financial woes continue for state-owned telcos

摘要

State-owned operators Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and its smaller sister firm Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) have reported widening net losses, the Economic Times writes, citing statements from Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha to parliament. According to the official, BSNL registered net loss of INR79.92 billion (US$1.11 billion) for the year to 31 March 2018, compared to a net loss of INR47.93 billion in the previous financial year. Mr Sinha did not offer a reason for the decline, but went on to say that the company has an ongoing mobile expansion project that 'envisages introducing 4G services in BSNL' and will also improve GSM capacity, as well as coverage and data services.