Good news for Reliance Jio, Airtel, BSNL users, can now make calls even without signal, here's how

Millions of mobile users in India can now stay connected even when their network signals are weak, thanks to the Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) service launched on January 17. This initiative, supported by BSNL, Jio, and Airtel, allows users to make calls and access 4G data by connecting to any available network. The launch coincided with an event showcasing 4G mobile towers funded by the government’s Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) program, aimed at enhancing connectivity in remote areas.

According to reports, the ICR service enables telecom providers to share DBN-funded infrastructure. When a user’s primary network is unavailable, their phone automatically switches to another available network at the same tower. This collaboration between major telecom players ensures uninterrupted 4G access, especially in rural and remote areas, without extra charges for users.

The government’s initiative aims to provide reliable mobile coverage to over 35,000 villages using nearly 27,000 mobile towers. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, while introducing the service, highlighted its potential to boost education, healthcare, and economic activities in underserved areas by eliminating connectivity gaps.

Previously, DBN-funded towers were exclusive to the operators who installed them. With ICR, all users, regardless of their telecom provider, can access these towers. This marks a significant step in ensuring reliable connectivity, reducing dropped calls, and improving data speeds across regions.

For telecom companies, this shared infrastructure reduces the need for additional towers, resulting in better resource utilisation and potential cost savings. For users, ICR represents a major step toward seamless and reliable mobile services across India, even in areas where network access was once a challenge.