
In a significant stride towards modernizing India’s telecommunications infrastructure, Tata Communications has partnered with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) to launch nationwide eSIM services. This collaboration leverages Tata Communications’ GSMA-accredited eSIM Subscription Management platform, MOVE™, delivered through its subsidiary, Tata Communications Collaboration Services Private Ltd. (TCCSPL).
What is eSIM?
An eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module) is a digital SIM that allows users to activate a cellular plan without the need for a physical SIM card. This technology offers enhanced flexibility, security, and convenience, particularly for users with dual-SIM devices or those frequently traveling internationally.
Key Features of BSNL’s eSIM Service
- Remote Activation: Users can activate 2G, 3G, or 4G services by scanning a secure QR code, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card.
- Dual-SIM Support: Devices supporting dual-SIM functionality can use an eSIM alongside a physical SIM, facilitating seamless connectivity with local operators while traveling abroad.
- Device Compatibility: The service is compatible with a wide range of smartphones and wearables that support eSIM technology.
Strategic Implications
This partnership marks a pivotal advancement in BSNL’s digital transformation, aligning with the Government of India’s Digital India initiative. A. S. Lakshminarayanan, MD and CEO of Tata Communications, emphasized that this collaboration reflects the company’s commitment to driving digital innovation and supporting sovereign infrastructure.
A. Robert Ravi, Chairman and Managing Director of BSNL, highlighted that the launch of the Pan-India eSIM service enhances the flexibility, security, and efficiency of mobile services, fostering digital independence and ensuring robust infrastructure for the future.
While the initial rollout focuses on consumer services, the MOVE™ platform is designed to scale for enterprise IoT applications, supporting the digital transformation of Indian enterprises. This scalability positions BSNL to meet the evolving connectivity needs of both individual users and businesses across the country.