Privatisation U-Turn
In a significant departure from its earlier policy focus, the Union government is stepping back from aggressive privatisation efforts and is instead investing heavily in reviving ailing state-run enterprises.
In a significant departure from its earlier policy focus, the Union government is stepping back from aggressive privatisation efforts and is instead investing heavily in reviving ailing state-run enterprises.
The Government approved a revival plan for Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) on 23.10.2019, the Minister said.
Harassed by tardy maintenance of the MTNL’s transmission lines and underground cable thefts, its subscribers migrated gradually to other telecom service providers.
The tension has also affected the mobile industry. Chinese handset maker Oppo cancelled the livestream launch of its flagship 5G smartphone in the country amid protests.
TRAI has also sought details of the steps taken to ensure availability of uninterrupted telecom services to such customers on a "priority basis".
Prasad also ordered that BSNL and MTNL should conduct fresh Fire and Safety audit of each of their buildings/installations in a time-bound manner.
According to the sources, about 100 people are reportedly trapped on the terrace of the building.
According to the source, it means that there is no immediate move, in the next few months till a new govenrment settles down, to revive both central public sector enterprises (CPSEs). Last month, the DoT had floated a draft cabinet note for consultation among ministries on the revival of BSNL and MTNL.
The DCC meeting is likely to take a decision on MTNL's revival plan including a voluntary retirement scheme (VRS).
The cabinet also approved reservation of 20% of the orders for the turnkey projects like GSM network roll-out, WiFi and others of BSNL, MTNL and the BharatNet project of BBNL.
