India is rapidly emerging as a global leader in 5G signs with a 4.6 lakh base transcendent stations (BTS) established in 779 districts since October 2022. The rollout aims to cover 95% of the population with mid-band 5G, which is in India’s position in the top 15 countries for 5G media download speed. According to Ericsson Mobility Report 2024, India is estimated to reach 970 million 5G membership by 2030, 74% accounting for mobile users.
In an interview with Outlook Business, Nitin Bansal, managing director of Ericsson India, highlighted the transforming effect of 5G on industries and consumer experiences, which enables progress in AR/VR shopping, cloud gaming and 360-degree live streaming. Fixed wireless access (FWA) is also playing an important role in expanding high-speed internet in rural and semi-urban areas to increase digital inclusion.
Local manufacturing and R&D
Ericsson is investing heavily in research and development, focusing on AI, generic AI and network API. Bansal revealed that the company’s R&D centres in Chennai, Bangalore and Gurugram are hiring engineers to run innovation in areas such as device management, security and detection. The company’s Aduna platform is also supporting startup by providing access to advanced network API.
A new Telecom revolution with 6G development for India. pic.twitter.com/hPxQHMFD6M
— DoT India (@DoT_India) August 30, 2024
5G expansion in rural and semi-urban areas
Bansal emphasized the important role of 5G in reducing digital division in rural and semi-urban areas, providing FWA cost-effective, high-speed internet where fiber infrastructure is limited. Beyond connectivity, 5G is progressing in healthcare, education and infrastructure, leading to new opportunities for development and digital inclusion.
India’s 6G Vision and Global Leadership
India with 6G vision, India is doing ground work to become a global leader in 6G technology. Ericsson estimates a 6G rollout to start by 2030 and is actively contributing through its India 6G program, supported by a dedicated research team at its Chennai R&D centre.
SATCOM Integration for Comprehensive Connectivity
Bansal highlighted the complementary role of satellite communication in expanding network coverage in remote and disaster-affected areas. Ensuring emerging 3GPP standards in challenging areas, ensuring reliable connectivity, are paving the way for spontaneous satellite-temperature integration.
Road Ahead
Globally, 5G adoption is accelerating, with estimates 6.3 billion 5G membership by 2030, which includes 67% of all mobile connections. While India’s 5G trip is still in its early stages, rapid deployment and innovation efforts keep the country as a future leader in 6G technology.
