India’s private telecom operators have dismissed the need for captive private networks, saying the country’s 5G infrastructure is extensive enough to serve the needs of businesses, which are big consumers of data and may want to use the network for various applications.
Telcos were responding to Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI’s) recommendation of a separate framework for captive non-public network (CNPN) providers to establish, maintain, operate, and expand enterprises' networks.
“With Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of nationwide 5G expansion, telecom operators can deliver private network solutions that meet enterprise service level agreements (SLAs) at operational costs — eliminating the need for businesses to manage complex networks themselves,” said SP Kochhar, director general of COAI.
The Cellular Operators Association of India represents Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea.
Section 3 of the Telecommunications Act grants the government the authority to allocate spectrum to various sectors such as defence, law enforcement, broadcasting, in-flight and maritime connectivity and for the safety and operations of mines, ports, and oil exploration.
TRAI’s proposal would allow private businesses to set up their own networks.
Kochhar said several companies that initially set up private networks eventually returned to telecom operators due to technical and operational challenges.
COAI urged policymakers to direct efforts to strengthen the broader telecom infrastructure that fuels industrial growth.
Contributions to initiatives such as the Digital Bharat Nidhi (formerly USOF) to enhance connectivity in the few remaining underserved areas instead of creating isolated networks. “Policymakers must take a measured approach to regulatory decisions, ensuring they align with the nation’s long-term economic and technological interests."
COAI emphasised that India’s licensed telecom providers already offer advanced 5G solutions, including spectrum leasing and network slicing, allowing enterprises to meet diverse connectivity requirements without unnecessary spectrum fragmentation.
"This model ensures the efficient utilisation of a critical national resource while preventing unnecessary fragmentation of spectrum that would arise from setting aside dedicated frequencies for private captive networks,” Kochhar added.
The association also highlighted the high costs and rapid technological advancements in telecom, arguing that private networks risk obsolescence without constant upgrades.
“Captive private networks may struggle to keep pace with evolving telecom technology. Outdated systems without regular updates and security patches become vulnerable,” Kochhar said.
Disclosure: Moneycontrol is a part of the Network18 group. Network18 is controlled by Independent Media Trust, of which Reliance Industries is the sole beneficiary.
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