Union Cabinet’s decision on private 5G networks upholds the vision and mission of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Digital India': BIF

Broadband India Forum (BIF), the independent Think-Tank and Policy Forum for Digital Communications in the country, has hailed the Union Cabinet’s decision to enable Private 5G Networks as a forward-looking step, and a harbinger of the digital transformation which is critical for Digital India. This will lead to better efficiencies, productivity and output for the enterprises, accelerate digitization, boost capabilities, propel indigenous manufacturing and eventually garner greater economic gains for the country.

"With our aspiration to become a global manufacturing and supply chain hub, and building resilience and self-sufficiency in manufacturing to achieve ‘Atmanirbharta’, private 5G would be crucial for the enterprises to augment efficiencies, enhance productivity and march towards Industry 4.0. Due to the digitization of all sectors made possible through private 5G networks for enterprises, India can make massive gains in GDP and in the quality of living for the common man," BIF stated.

According to BIF, more private networks would also lead to more employment opportunities and business, and in turn, translate into greater economic output and benefits. Private Networks would further provide an additional source of revenue for the Government, through the license fees and administrative costs paid for the spectrum allocated to them.

BIF President, TV Ramachandran, commented: “The decision of the Union Cabinet, led by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India underlines the Government’s progressive vision and an extremely forward-looking approach towards use and advancement of technology to fulfil India’s digital ambitions. As we look to cement India’s position as a global hub for manufacturing, supply chain and R&D, as well as one of the leading digital economies across the world, the advancement of enterprises through dedicated captive private 5G networks will help gain efficiencies in all vital industry verticals, thereby helping leverage our geo-political advantage towards attainment of our national missions of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Digital India’.”

The Notice Inviting Applications (NIA) for the Spectrum Auction released this morning, permits all the four methods of allocating spectrum for Private 5G Networks as recommended by TRAI – including the option of enterprises obtaining spectrum directly from the DoT. This provides enterprises the much-required right to develop their private 5G networks based on the specialised requirements for their distinctive captive use.

The Cabinet decision has been taken keeping in mind the overall growth and advancement of the nation, the vital aspects of consumer benefits, adoption of technology, and continued reforms, for the benefit of all stakeholders, eventually leading to greater economic as well as socio-economic gains for the country. This will, in turn, accelerate Digital Transformation of Enterprises to Industry 4.0, and boost both ‘Atmanirbharta’ & ‘Make in India’.