PSU BSNL in an effort to push its sales in the rural segment has tied up with National Fertilizers Limited (NFL) whereby the distribution network of NFL will be used to offer mobile and broadband services of BSNL to the rural flocks.

As a pilot project, the two will initially work in the markets of MP and Chhattisgarh. And to start with the alliance will offer recharge vouchers followed by SIM connections and wireless data cards.

The alliance will also bundle services such as free SMS or voicemail up to 5 times daily on mandi prices, soil testing, farming techniques, dairy, weather forecasts, rural health etc, in the local language of the region. These services will be introduced in next few months.

BSNL will impart training to NFL dealers and retailers in 6 locations including  Raipur, Bilaspur in Chhattisgarh and Bhopal, Jabalpur, Indore, Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh. 

 Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Kuldeep Goyal, CMD, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited, said “With our new strategic alliance with the National Fertilizers Limited, we reinforce and further strengthen our commitment to bridge the rural-urban digital divide and meeting the information needs of the rural consumer”

CMD of NFL, Shri V.K.Sharma said that the tie-up will strengthen NFL’s efforts in providing agro information to farmers.