DoT urges state governments to use BSNL, MTNL for enhanced data security

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has written to the state governments to consider using the telecom services of state-run operators Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL), citing data security needs.

While governments have from time to time mandated using services of state-run telcos on a project-wise basis, such a broad directive of sorts is unprecedented, said industry executives. If implemented, it could cost private telecom and internet service providers (ISPs) thousands of crores in potential annual revenue, they said, adding that the smallest players would be the hardest hit as they survive on wafer-thin margins.