BSNL can ask 19,000 employees to leave under VRS 2.0

BSNL is still deploying 4G sites while private telcos expand 5G. The state-run operator plans to launch 5G by mid-2025 after completing one lakh 4G sites. So far, 83,993 sites are installed, with 74,521 operational. BSNL is also considering a new Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS 2.0) to cut its workforce by 18,000-19,000 employees, though no final decision has been made.