The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced the Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) facility, enabling telecom service providers (TSPs) to share infrastructure at government-funded mobile towers. Under this initiative, users of Jio, Airtel, and BSNL will be able to access 4G services and make calls even if they are out of their network coverage area, utilizing infrastructure from other service providers through DBN-funded towers.
DBN, or Digital Bharat Nidhi, is a fund established by the Government of India under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, to enhance the quality and accessibility of telecom services nationwide. Previously known as the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, DBN focuses on expanding connectivity in rural and remote areas.
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced the launch, highlighting its significance. “This is a crucial pillar, with three of our TSPs – BSNL, Airtel, and Reliance – joining forces to leverage each other’s infrastructure at all DBN-funded sites. With nearly 27,836 such sites, we are ensuring not only connectivity but also providing customers across the country with the freedom of choice,” he stated.
The launch of ICR means that infrastructure requirements would also reduce, as fewer cell towers would need to be installed. More people would benefit from a single DBN-funded tower and get access to 4G services. According to the official announcement by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), this launch will enable “seamless 4G connectivity for over 35,400 rural and remote villages served by approximately such 27,000 towers.” (With inputs from Business Today)