News: On January 1, 2026, BSNL announced the nationwide rollout of VoWiFi (Wi-Fi Calling) across all telecom circles.
Technical & Strategic Details:
- Mechanism: VoWiFi uses IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) technology to route voice calls over a Wi-Fi connection instead of a cellular tower.
- The "BSNL Advantage": Unlike private telcos that focus on urban 5G, BSNL is using VoWiFi to solve connectivity issues in rural/remote areas and "dark zones" like basements or high-rise buildings where cell signals are weak.
- Zero Cost: The service is free and requires no third-party app; it uses the phone's native dialer.
- Strategic Goal: Part of the ₹1.64 lakh crore BSNL revival package to modernize the state-run telco and bridge the digital divide.
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
