
State-run telecom firm BSNL has posted a profit of Rs 280 crore for the fourth quarter ending March 31, 2025. This marks the second consecutive quarterly profit for the company, a feat it has not achieved in 18 years. Just a year ago, BSNL was facing a loss of Rs 849 crore during the same period.
This turnaround is no small feat. It signals a real shift for BSNL, which has struggled for nearly two decades to post consistent profits.

The last time the company made back-to-back quarterly net profits was in 2007. As Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia put it, this is a historic moment for the company and the public telecom sector.
So, what does this mean for the average Indian? For starters, a healthier BSNL means more affordable and reliable telecom services across the country, especially in rural and underserved areas where private players hesitate to go. This profit surge could lead to faster rollout of 4G and 5G services, helping bridge the digital divide.
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BSNL’s turnaround isn’t just about the numbers. It reflects sharper management, government support, and a focus on quality service. BSNL’s Chairman and Managing Director,
A Robert J Ravi, said that the company is not chasing profits for their own sake. Instead, the goal is to provide excellent service and innovate for inclusivity, especially for those still “unreached” by modern connectivity.
Here’s a quick reality check: While private players chase profits aggressively, BSNL’s revival shows that a government-run firm can still compete when managed well.
It’s like that unexpected underdog in a cricket match suddenly smashing a six in the final over — surprising but satisfying.
For the financial year 2024-25, BSNL cut its losses to Rs 2,247 crore from Rs 5,370 crore the previous year. Operating revenue also rose by nearly 8%, showing the business is growing steadily. With continued cost control and faster technology deployment, BSNL looks ready to sustain this positive trend.
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