It was expected that the National Optical Broadband Network (NOBN) project  which aims to connect more than 2.25 gram panchayats in the country would be entrusted with BSNL, since it is the most eligible with maximum infrastructure like 6 lakh route km of optical fibre  and staff for executing the same. The project will be financed by funds from USO. We also had demanded the government that it should be entrusted with BSNL. The DOT had also suggested that the work be entrusted with BSNL.

But, according to media reports, the government is now proposing to set up a Special Purpose Vehicle(SPV)  for implementing this project . The  SPV will be named Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL) with an estimate of Rs. 20,000 crore  for this project. Public Sector Units like BSNL, Railtel, Powergrid etc. will be involved in this.

If this project was entrusted with BSNL, the ailing PSU could have improved its financial position and also done the job in a very efficient way, since sufficient senior and experienced staff is available. There is no doubt that the present move to deny BSNL this responsibility is due to pressure from certain quarters, especially private telecom operators, who are afraid of BSNL attaining a prominent position.

The Unions in BSNL and others have to demand the government  to change their present proposal/decision and entrust the scheme with BSNL which will benefit the country.