Telecom dept directs BSNL, MTNL to explain 'viability' of revival plans

Govt may spend Rs 8,000 crore on turnaround

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) have been directed by the Department of Telecommu­nications (DoT) to explain the “viability” of their respective revival plans before the government takes a decision on their turnaround strategies. According to the Digital Communications Commission (DCC), the Centre wants the presence of the state-run companies in a "strategic" sector like telecom and is considering to earmark over Rs 8,000 crore for the revival of the two. 

“Both have been asked to explain how the plans would benefit and actually lead to a financial turnaround of the sick PSUs,” said an official