Technological innovations with 5G to redefine future of Indian telecom

Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP (DTTILLP), along with CII, launched a comprehensive report called “Digital Reset – Touching a billion Indians” that highlights the 5G technology as a key enabler and contributor to the success of the enterprise business and easing the lives of the common man.

This will need introduction of customised telecom solutions designed to promote internet adoption within niche and untapped consumer segments based on their needs and aspirations, ultimately leading to deeper penetration and geographical reach of telecom services.

As the industry transcends from ‘digital-first’ to ‘digital-throughout’, technological enablement will continue to create a ubiquitous presence amongst consumers and diversify revenue streams for enterprises moving “beyond connectivity” only.

Additionally, latest telecommunication reforms show GoI’s support and commitment towards sustainable growth of the telecommunication industry.

Speaking on the launch of the report, Peeyush Vaish, Partner and telecom sector leader, DTTILLP, said, “The roll out of high-speed broadband through 5G and satellite broadband will see the convergence of the telecom ecosystem and significantly affect the lives of a billion Indians. It will pave the way for bridging the urban−rural divide across sectors, including banking, healthcare, and education. India is also poised to be at the forefront of the fourth industrial revolution with the integration of Information Technology (IT), Operational Technology, (OT) and Telecom Infrastructure (TI).

Given the potential and impact, it is time for the government to create a separate ministry led by a cabinet minister on “digital transformation” that will work cohesively with various government bodies and the private sector ecosystem to drive digital adoption in India.“

Commenting on the launch of the report, Umang Das, Chairman, CII Telecom Convergence Summit 2021, said, “The telecom sector is at of the cusp of transformation. GoI and the private sector are coming together to weave an unpreceded wave of digitisation that will drive Industry 4.0 and significantly improve the day-to-day lives of a billion Indians.”

Key trends emerging in view of 5G advancements

1. Usage of IoT: Enterprises will use IoT to cater to diversified customer needs that will also help manage enterprise operations, optimise costs, and reduce human interference.

2. Data storage strategy: Advancements in technology and data management go hand in hand. Hence, managing data is imperative for organisations. Cloud computing shall offer tailored products for data storage and facilitate business operations by integrating devices online, without owning physical assets.

3. New revenue streams: As the telecommunication industry becomes the key driver of industry-wide convergence, new revenue streams (using industry-wide collaborations) have opened/shall open for TSPs.

4. With the emergence of 5GAR and upgrading of networks in the country, a unified digital ecosystem enabling innovations and facilitating exchange of information is foreseen.

5. Change in operating models and revenue streams of numerous Indian industries expected (such as healthcare, education, fintech, e-commerce, and entertainment) to take place, demonstrating the telecom sector’s significant contribution to the GDP predicted at 8 percent for FY 2021-22.

CT Bureau