Reliability: I can't rely on BSNL 3G for important downloads ( FTP transfers, for example) . The speeds will remain steady at 90 KBps for few minutes and then suddenly drop to 0 KBps the next moment, most of the time resulting into incomplete downloads.
For me, early morning [4 AM - 7 AM ] is the best time to connect to BSNL 3G service as you get good download speeds, uninterrupted. I've experienced good connection speeds during evening time as well, between 8 - 10 PM.
BSNL 3G is cheap. They don't have 'fair usage policy' attached to what they offer. Other 3G network providers don't match the price offers BSNL has for unlimited download plans. However I expect the service to be more reliable in terms of speed and performance. I'd be very happy if I received download speeds above 1 MBps. But I think I'll have to wait longer