India, March 26 -- India's telecom sector may be approaching a new phase of operational collaboration, as Vodafone Idea (Vi) and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) reportedly explore infrastructure sharing to reduce costs and improve network performance. The move reflects mounting financial pressures on both operators and a broader shift in how telecom networks are built and maintained in a capital-intensive industry.

Vi and BSNL have faced persistent financial and operational challenges in recent years. Vi, in particular, continues to manage high debt levels and intense competition from larger private operators, while BSNL has struggled with delayed technology upgrades and limited market share in urban areas. Infrastructure sharing off...