5G Technology

Introduction:

Intro 1:

5G is the fifth generation of mobile network technology. It represents a significant leap forward from its predecessors (1G, 2G, 3G, and 4G) and introduces several transformative features

Intro 2:

5G, or fifth-generation, is the latest cellular network technology that offers significant improvements over its predecessor, 4G

Keywords:

1. Address Speed, Latency and Utility Issues of earlier/current generation of mobile networks

2. Enhanced throughput to handle more simultaneous connections at a time

3. Works in 3 Bands: LOW, MID and HIGH

Significance:

1. Economic Growth: Estimated to add $450 B to Indian Economy

2. High Speed: 10 Gbps – cheap telecom data charges

3. Job Creation: Agriculture, Health, Education, Infrastructure and Logistics

4. Ease of Doing Business: Improving e-Governance

5. Self-Reliance: Critical for National Security

Steps taken by Government:

1. Indian Telegraph Right of Way (Amendment) Rules, 2022 – enable faster 5G rollout

2. National Digital Communication Policy, 2018

3. Free 5G Test Bed by DoT – to Startups and MSMEs

4. 5G launch in select cities for trial

Challenges:

1. Low Fiberisation Footprint: Only 33% of India’s telecom towers connect by fibre optics

2. Hardware: Dependent on Imported Telecom OEMs

3. Global Harmonization of Spectrum Allocation

4. High Spectrum Pricing

5. Net Neutrality – Network Slicing (preferential or differential treatment)

6. Others:

a. Low ARPA (Average Revenue Per Account)

b. Network Coverage Issue

c. Data Privacy

Way Forward:

1. Doubling of Fibre Connectivity

2. Boost local 5G Hardware Manufacturing

3. Rationalisation of Prices

4. Balanced Allocation of Bands

Conclusion 1: 

Overall, 5G is poised to be a transformative technology with far-reaching consequences. It has the potential to revolutionize various industries, improve communication infrastructure, and pave the way for exciting future developments.