ICR Service: The Department of Telecom (DoT) has introduced a groundbreaking Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) service aimed at improving mobile connectivity, especially in rural and remote areas. This initiative will ensure that users of major telecom operators—Jio, Airtel, and BSNL—can make calls and access mobile networks seamlessly, even in areas where their network providers do not have coverage.
What is the ICR Service?
Previously, mobile users could only connect to towers operated by their specific telecom operator. For instance, a BSNL user in an area without a BSNL tower would face connectivity issues. With the introduction of the ICR service, users can now connect to DBN-funded towers of other operators, ensuring uninterrupted service.
For example, if a BSNL user resides in an area without BSNL coverage but with Airtel’s network availability, they can automatically access Airtel’s tower. This collaboration between Jio, Airtel, and BSNL is made possible through DBN-funded sites.
What is DBN?
The DBN (Digital Bharat Network) was established under the Telecom Act 2023 as a fund created by the Government of India to enhance connectivity in underserved and remote regions. The fund supports the deployment of telecom towers in areas where connectivity is minimal or nonexistent, particularly focusing on rural development.
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According to the Department of Telecom, the initiative will roll out 4G coverage through 27,000 DBN-funded towers, benefiting over 35,400 villages across the country.
Key Benefits of ICR Service
- Seamless Connectivity:
Users no longer need to rely solely on their operator’s towers. They can switch to other available networks, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity. - Improved Rural Connectivity:
This initiative addresses the long-standing issue of poor connectivity in remote areas. With DBN towers, rural users can now experience better network coverage. - Cost-Effectiveness for Telecom Operators:
Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) can reduce operational costs, as they no longer need to install towers in every underserved region. The use of shared DBN-funded towers minimizes infrastructure duplication. - Enhanced User Experience:
Mobile users will no longer face dropped calls or poor signal issues, making the overall connectivity experience smoother and more reliable.
Launch of Sanchar Sathi App and National Broadband Mission 2.0
Alongside the ICR service, Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia unveiled two other initiatives to improve digital infrastructure:
- Sanchar Sathi App: A mobile app designed to provide users with easy access to telecom services and support.
- National Broadband Mission 2.0: A mission to enhance broadband connectivity nationwide, further bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas.
Focus on Rural and Remote Areas
The ICR service is particularly significant for rural India, where network coverage has historically been a challenge. Scindia emphasized that the collaboration between Jio, Airtel, and BSNL will provide improved services to rural users by leveraging DBN-supported infrastructure.
Conclusion
The launch of the ICR service marks a significant step toward achieving Digital India’s connectivity goals. By enabling seamless network access through shared infrastructure, the initiative ensures that mobile users, especially in rural and underserved regions, can stay connected without interruption. As the DBN-funded towers roll out across 35,400 villages, India is set to witness a transformation in its telecom landscape, benefiting millions of users nationwide.
