With the aim of tackling competition head-on, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) have reportedly collaborated to offer free roaming services to customers.

Currently, this facility is applicable on select services only-for example, both companies do not impose roaming charges for mobile internet services on the other’s subscribers in the National Capital Region (NCR), except in Delhi. Now, both companies are reportedly chalking out a similar framework for voice calls.

As the first step, the companies are reportedly planning to reduce the charges levied on customers while roaming, which would gradually be waived.

In addition, BSNL and MTNL have signed a memorandum of understanding to provide various services to wireless and enterprise customers on a pan-India basis. This would include mobile communications, infrastructure sharing and enterprise solutions.

Infrastructure shared between the two entities would include buildings, ducts, mobile towers and facilities such as international long distance services. Also, both companies are focusing on their enterprise businesses to generate revenues. For instance, BSNL is reportedly looking to net over Rs 20 billion this financial year from the enterprise segment.