BSNL call forwarding uses different codes from Jio, Airtel, and Vi — the most common failure is using the wrong USSD format. Here are 6 fixes.
Last verified: June 2026
Quick Answer
Most BSNL call forwarding failures: (1) wrong code format — BSNL uses *401*[number]# not **67*[number]#, (2) prepaid plan restriction — check BSNL Self Care app, (3) slow USSD response — wait 60 seconds for confirmation before testing.
BSNL uses a different forwarding system from Jio, Airtel, and Vi, so the wrong code format is the usual culprit.
The practical rule is simple: fix the carrier-side formatting problem first, then test the network path, and only then move on to app or support steps. That order saves time because most forwarding issues are not Katch issues at all — they are carrier activation issues.
This is the fix that solves most BSNL problems immediately. BSNL does not use the same conditional call forwarding codes as Jio, Airtel, or Vi. Use *401*[10-digit number]# for no-answer, *402*[10-digit number]# for busy, *403*[10-digit number]# for not reachable, *404*[10-digit number]# for all calls, #401# to cancel no-answer, and ##002# to cancel everything. If you dial **61* or **67* on BSNL, you are using the wrong network syntax.
BSNL's app often works better than USSD because it pushes the request through the account layer instead of depending on immediate code parsing. Open BSNL Self Care → Call Management → Call Forwarding and enter the destination number there. If you are unsure whether the app method is officially supported, start with the carrier's own service directory at bsnl.co.in/service, then compare what you see in the app with the options available on your line.
BSNL is slower than Jio, Airtel, and Vi at processing supplementary service requests. A lot of users dial the code, see no immediate pop-up, and assume the request failed. Give BSNL a full 60 seconds before testing. The confirmation SMS can lag, especially in low-signal areas or on older SIM registrations. If you cancel and re-enter too quickly, you can actually interrupt the first request before the network finishes applying it.
Very small BSNL prepaid recharges may not expose forwarding the same way as standard plans. Open BSNL Self Care → My Account → Plan Details and check whether call forwarding or supplementary services are included. If you are on a plan below ₹99, moving to STV 107 or higher is a practical troubleshooting step. The point is not that every cheap plan blocks forwarding, but that lower-tier packs create more ambiguity than standard plans do.
Once you know the code format is correct, reset the line fully. Dial ##002# to cancel all forwarding, wait about 30 seconds, then re-enter *401*[number]# for no-answer and *402*[number]# for busy. Test after each rule instead of adding everything at once. BSNL's network can be slow enough that step-by-step testing is much more informative than bulk setup.
If the right codes still fail, ask BSNL to check the line at the account level. Call 1800-180-1503 or visit a local customer service centre. Mention whether this is a mobile or landline account, because BSNL handles them differently. Your second official carrier citation can simply be the main BSNL support property at bsnl.co.in, which is where BSNL routes customers for service documentation and account help.
Use a second phone and let your BSNL number ring unanswered. Because BSNL can be slightly slower than Jio or Airtel, allow a little more time before deciding it failed. In a normal setup, Katch should answer within roughly 8-10 seconds. After the caller speaks, you should receive a summary text with the caller's name and reason for calling. Test both the no-answer and busy scenarios separately so you know whether only one forwarding rule is failing.
With BSNL, set *401*[KATCH NUMBER]# for no-answer forwarding and *402*[KATCH NUMBER]# for busy forwarding. Once the call is forwarded, Katch answers with AI, screens the caller, and texts you a structured summary. The full setup guide lives at /guides/call-forwarding-india. For carrier-side reference, compare your steps against bsnl.co.in/service and the broader official BSNL site at bsnl.co.in.
Also see: BSNL call forwarding setup • All carriers guide • How to check forwarding
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