BSNL is poised to launch a telecom expansion overdrive in rural India. The government owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited has unveiled a majestic plan to expand in rural India, a big emerging market after the saturation in urban telecom market in the country.

India has seen the fastest growth in telephone density in recent time. This has propelled BSNL, the largest telecom service provider in the country, to take some actions in order to preserve its top position.

State-owned PSU, BSNL is reportedly planning to invest Rs. 500 crore in the next one year for its expansion initiatives in rural West Bengal (WB). The company aims to double its network infrastructure reach from the current 11600 cell sites to almost double. The plans include introduction of WiMAX network at the block level in rural Bengal by 2009. BSN also expects to introduce one lakh broadband connections in the state by the end of the current financial year.

BSNL has come up with a new scheme in which landline connection is available at monthly installments of Rs.20 exclusively for people living in rural parts of Uttar Pradesh. People can avail this facility either by paying Rs 200 as down payment or by depositing Rs.20 per month. Under this scheme, the company offers 20 free calls per month to its subscribers.