Telecom PSU land transfer: High-level panel clears new framework for BSNL, MTNL, ITI surplus asset disposal; 90-day deadline set for intent submissions – OXBIG NEWS NETWORK-OxBig News Network

A high-level committee has approved a framework to enable the transfer of surplus land and buildings held by telecom PSUs — Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL), Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL), and ITI Ltd — to central government organisations without an auction.The proposal, cleared at a meeting of the Committee of Secretaries in June, allows any central government organisation interested in such assets to submit its intent within 90 days from the asset’s listing on the government’s asset monetisation portal, PTI reported. The interested organisation must provide the necessary approvals and deposit an earnest money of 2% of the indicative value to formally register its claim.After the 90-day period, if no central entity comes forward, BSNL, MTNL, and ITI will be free to sell the properties to other non-government buyers.“As per government policy, surplus land/building assets of PSUs of DoT are being monetised… In a recent meeting of Committee of Secretaries chaired by Cabinet Secretary on June 12, 2025, it was decided that BSNL/MTNL/ITI may transfer their immovable assets to Central Government/Central Government organisations without auction,” Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal said in a note addressed to secretaries of various ministries and departments.The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has also asked all ministries to inform their subordinate departments and PSUs so that timely action can be taken by interested entities.The framework specifies that transfers will be made at market value, to be determined using one of the following — the rate fixed by valuation agencies, the circle rate or guideline value, or the ready reckoner rate — whichever is higher.For properties valued up to Rs 10 crore, the PSUs themselves — BSNL, MTNL, or ITI — will act as valuation agencies. For properties between Rs 10 crore and Rs 100 crore, the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) will be responsible. In cases where the asset value exceeds Rs 100 crore, the National Land Monetisation Corporation will step in as the designated valuation body.In the event of multiple government organisations expressing interest in the same property, preference will be given to central government entities, according to the note dated July 4.