A significant turnaround for BSNL; two straight quarters of profit, record capex, and rising revenues signal a bold new era for India’s state-run telecom giant.
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has posted its second consecutive profitable quarter, marking a historic turnaround in its financial performance. The state-run telecom firm reported a net profit of ₹2.8 billion for the quarter ended 31 March 2025, following a ₹2.62 billion profit in Q3 of the same fiscal year.
This is the first time in 18 years that BSNL has reported consecutive net profits, according to the company’s audited results approved at its 243rd board meeting.
Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia hailed the development as a milestone, calling the turnaround a testament to the government’s digital and self-reliance initiatives.
In FY25, BSNL significantly narrowed its annual loss by 58 per cent— from ₹53.7 billion in FY24 to ₹22.47 billion. Operating revenue rose 7.8 per cent to ₹208.41 billion, while total income climbed 10% to ₹234.27 billion.
Strong gains were seen across core business segments, including mobility, fibre broadband, and enterprise services.
EBITDA surged to ₹53.96 billion from ₹21.64 billion in FY24, boosting margins to 23.01 per cent. 27 telecom circles reported EBITDA-positive results, up from 17 the previous year, while ten circles turned profitable at the net level.
Capital expenditure hit a record ₹260.22 billion, with major investments in 4G roll-out and fibre infrastructure. However, rising depreciation from spectrum purchases is expected to pressure short-term profits.
CMD A. Robert J. Ravi said BSNL’s transformation is not just financial but strategic. “We are not chasing profits. We are building a telecom institution rooted in service, inclusion, and excellence.”
