In a strategic move to expand mobile connectivity across India, the Department of Posts (DoP), which oversees India Post, and state-owned telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enable SIM card sales and mobile recharge services through the country’s vast postal network.
The MoU was formally signed by Manisha Bansal Badal, General Manager (Citizen Centric Services & Retail Business), Department of Posts, and Deepak Garg, Principal General Manager (Sales and Marketing for Consumer Mobility), BSNL.
Under the agreement, India Post will leverage its unparalleled network of over 165,000 post offices to serve as points of sale (PoS) for BSNL’s mobile services. This includes SIM card distribution and recharge facilities, with a focus on extending telecom access to underserved and remote regions.
“This partnership combines the trusted reach of India Post with the telecom expertise of BSNL to deliver affordable and accessible connectivity to every citizen,” said Badal.
Garg added, “Through this collaboration, BSNL services will be available at every nook and corner of the country, enabling citizens—particularly in rural and underserved areas—to access mobile services conveniently at their nearest Post Office.”
The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and empower rural households with reliable mobile services, while advancing the broader goals of Digital India, financial inclusion, and socio-economic development. A successful proof-of-concept pilot in Assam has already demonstrated the model’s viability and scalability.
BSNL will supply SIM stock and provide training to postal staff, while DoP will onboard new customers and facilitate secure, standardised transactions. The agreement is effective for one year, with scope for renewal based on performance.
Both parties will jointly oversee implementation through robust monitoring, monthly reconciliation, and strict adherence to cybersecurity and data privacy protocols. By combining BSNL’s telecom infrastructure with India Post’s nationwide presence, the partnership sets a new benchmark in public sector synergy for citizen-centric service delivery.