BSNL Launches New IPTV Service with Over 1,000 Live TV Channels
State-owned telecom operator BSNL has introduced a game-changing entertainment service that eliminates the need for traditional DTH setups. With this new offering, users can access more than 1,000 live television channels and popular OTT applications over an internet connection, all at a highly affordable price point.
What Is BSNL’s BiTV Service?
BSNL has transformed the television viewing experience through its Internet Protocol-based TV service, known as IFTV. This technology does not require any satellite dish or antenna; instead, your broadband connection delivers the TV signals directly. The company recently announced this new BiTV package through its official social media channels. The service bundles live TV channels, high-definition (HD) channels, and OTT platform access into a single, convenient subscription.
Pricing Plans for Every Budget
BSNL has structured its BiTV plans to cater to different user needs and budgets:
- Basic Plan at ₹151: This entry-level package offers users access to over 450 live TV channels along with several OTT apps. It is designed for viewers who want a wide range of content without spending too much.
- Premium Plan at ₹212: By paying just ₹61 more, subscribers unlock more than 1,000 channels, including HD options. This plan delivers a premium television experience at a fraction of the cost of conventional DTH services.
- Dedicated OTT Plan at ₹499: For streaming enthusiasts, BSNL offers a separate OTT pack that provides access to major platforms such as JioHotstar, Zee5, and SonyLIV. Subscribers can enjoy web series, movies, and live sports events through this plan.
Network Expansion and Financial Turnaround
BSNL is simultaneously strengthening its infrastructure to support these new services. According to recent parliamentary disclosures by Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, the company plans to install between 50,000 and 60,000 new mobile towers to enhance network coverage. This expansion will complement the approximately 100,000 towers already operational, which are delivering 4G signals using indigenous technology.
On the financial front, BSNL has reported positive developments after a prolonged period of losses. For the first time in 18 years, the company posted a quarterly profit of ₹262 crore. Its operating profit (EBITDA) also saw a significant jump, rising from ₹2,395 crore in the fiscal year 2023-24 to ₹5,100 crore in 2024-25. To build out its 4G network, BSNL made a substantial capital investment of ₹20,000 crore in a single year.
Why This Matters for Consumers
The BiTV service represents a shift away from hardware-dependent television. Users no longer need to install dishes, manage cables, or deal with signal interference caused by weather. Instead, a stable internet connection is all that is required to stream live content. This approach simplifies setup, reduces equipment costs, and offers greater flexibility for households that want to watch television on multiple devices.
Furthermore, the inclusion of OTT platforms within the same package bridges the gap between traditional live TV and on-demand streaming. Viewers can switch effortlessly between news channels, sports broadcasts, movies, and original web series without subscribing to separate services.
Looking Ahead
With aggressive network expansion and a renewed focus on customer-centric offerings, BSNL appears to be positioning itself as a serious contender in India’s competitive telecom and entertainment market. The BiTV plans, combined with the company’s improving financial health and infrastructure investments, suggest a strategic push to retain existing users and attract new ones seeking cost-effective, all-in-one entertainment solutions.
