Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam has assured that the government has no plans to sell the state-owned mobile operator Teletalk. He emphasized that Teletalk must remain under government ownership to ensure healthy competition in the country’s telecom market. Speaking during the question-answer session in the Jatiya Sangsad, the minister said initiatives are underway to expand Teletalk’s network and improve its service quality through government and foreign financing.
Commitment to Teletalk's Network Expansion
The minister highlighted the need for more mobile towers to enhance Teletalk’s network coverage and service quality, which demands substantial investment. He stressed, “We must keep Teletalk in the market. It has to remain under government ownership,” adding that without the state-run operator, private mobile companies might increase service charges at their discretion.
Addressing Mobile Data and Call Drop Issues
Responding to questions from lawmakers, the minister said the government is looking into the matter of unused mobile data expiring after short-term packages. The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has held discussions with mobile operators, who cited their business policies in support of the existing system. Additionally, discussions have been held with operators regarding call drops, and the minister assured the House that pressure on operators would continue to safeguard consumers’ interests.
Broadband and Digital Connectivity Projects
The minister informed the House that work is underway to provide 109,004 broadband internet connections across the country under the Digital Connectivity Establishment Project. Broadband connectivity has already been provided to 57,000 institutions, including colleges, schools, and government offices. The government is also planning to introduce expatriate help desks at Digital Centres to facilitate services for overseas Bangladeshis and make remittance transactions easier.
Improving Network Coverage and Post Office Renovations
In response to concerns about poor mobile network coverage in border areas, the minister said necessary measures, including the installation of additional towers, would be considered after receiving detailed information about the affected areas. Regarding dilapidated post offices, the minister noted that there are more than 9,000 post offices across the country, most of which are in poor condition. The government is carrying out renovation work in phases.
Promoting Digital Skills and 5G Services
The minister said the government is working to engage young people in artificial intelligence, freelancing, and other internet-based professions to help protect them from harmful online activities. Training centres are being established at the upazila level to enhance the skills of young people and make them self-reliant. Additionally, technology-neutral licenses have been issued to mobile operators to facilitate nationwide expansion of 5G services, with spectrum in the 2.3 GHz and 2.6 GHz bands already allocated for 5G deployment.
