BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited) has launched a new “Freedom Offer” to celebrate Independence Day 2025. Under this special plan, new users can get a free SIM card, unlimited local and national voice calls, 100 SMS per day, and 2 GB of 4G data daily — all for just ₹1. The plan is valid for 30 days and available till August 31, 2025.
Who Can Avail This Offer?
This Freedom Plan is only for new BSNL users. If you’re already a BSNL subscriber, you cannot claim this plan. After consuming the daily 2 GB data, your speed will be reduced to 40 kbps under the fair usage policy (FUP), which is enough for basic browsing and messaging but not for streaming or downloads.
Where and How to Get It?
To claim this ₹1 plan, you must visit a nearby BSNL Retailer or Common Services Centre (CSC). These are official outlets where new SIMs are issued, and other services are provided. As of now, doorstep SIM delivery is not confirmed to include this offer, so walk-in activation is the safest option.
Indigenous 4G Rollout Under Atmanirbhar Bharat
BSNL CMD A. Robert J. Ravi stated that this offer will help people experience India’s own 4G network, built completely with indigenous technology. BSNL is installing 1 lakh 4G towers across the country, especially targeting rural and remote areas. The aim is to give people in smaller towns the same high-speed internet as those in big cities.
Competition is Heating Up
BSNL’s offer is grabbing attention, but private telecom companies like Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi) are not sitting quietly. These companies are offering 5G plans, OTT subscriptions, and longer validity. For example:
Jio gives unlimited 5G data, OTT apps like JioCinema, and 28-day plans starting at ₹239.
Airtel offers 5G unlimited data, Wynk Music, and Apollo 24/7 access in ₹299 plans.
Vi offers binge packs with data rollover and Vi Movies access.
BSNL’s Rural and Low-Income Focus
Unlike private players focusing on urban markets, BSNL is focusing on low-income and rural users. Many users in smaller towns still use 2G or 3G services. BSNL’s ₹1 plan will help them test high-speed 4G without spending much. It’s a good move for people switching from old phones or trying internet for the first time.
BSNL’s Other New Plans
- Besides the ₹1 plan, BSNL has launched:
- ₹249 plan: Unlimited data and calls for 45 days with OTT perks.
- ₹897 plan: Validity of 180 days with unlimited voice and data.
- However, BSNL has also reduced the validity of older cheap plans like ₹99 and ₹147, making some users unhappy.
BSNL is expected to launch 5G services by early 2026, after completing the nationwide 4G rollout. The government has already approved spectrum for BSNL’s 5G trials. Once its 4G network is fully stable, BSNL plans to switch to 5G using Indian technology, aiming to compete directly with Jio and Airtel.
BSNL’s ₹1 Freedom Plan is a smart, low-cost offer for people who want to try a 4G SIM without risk. It gives you unlimited calls, messages, and daily data, all for the cost of a toffee. While Jio, Airtel, and Vi offer more features, they’re also more expensive. If you’re a new user and want to try India’s own network, this is your chance.
