Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) posted a net loss of ₹1,269 crore in the fourth quarter of FY26, reversing from a net profit of ₹280 crore in the same period last year, according to its FY26 financial statements published on May 22. The full-year loss widened to ₹4,738 crore, more than double the ₹2,247 crore loss reported in FY25, driven by falling revenue and rising costs.
The quarterly loss was primarily due to increased network operating expenses, higher employee costs, finance charges, and depreciation. BSNL's cellular business, which contributes about 26% of its revenue, saw only 1% growth in FY26, with revenue rising marginally to ₹5,571 crore. The company’s overall revenue decline and cost pressures contributed to the deteriorating financial performance, as detailed in the statements published on BSNL's website.
The results highlight the challenges faced by BSNL amid intense competition and a rapidly evolving telecom sector in India. The state-owned operator’s financial strain contrasts with private sector peers that have reported growth and profitability. BSNL’s struggle to expand its cellular revenue and control costs underscores the difficulties for government-run telecom entities in maintaining market share and financial health.
BSNL’s FY26 financial statements were made public on May 22, revealing the company’s continued losses and operational challenges. The cellular segment’s revenue of ₹5,571 crore marks a modest increase but remains insufficient to offset rising expenses and losses in other areas.