Question : Introduction of 5G Technology

(a) whether Technology is absolutely crucial for accelerating and deepening the Digital India Campaign in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the time by which a decision is likely to be taken by the Government to introduce 5G technology in the country;

(c) whether the United States has warned the Government to address the concerns over data theft and national security implications while deciding Vendors for the introduction of the said technology;

(d) if so, the details thereof along with the reaction of the Government thereto; and

(e) the steps taken/being taken by the Government to factor in integrity of data of Indian citizens and national security along with cost consideration in implementation of 5G technology in the country?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS, EDUCATION AND
ELECTRONICS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
(SHRI SANJAY DHOTRE)

(a)&(b) 5G technology facilitates features like Enhanced Mobile Broad Band (eMBB), Ultra Reliable and Low Latency Communications (uRLLC) and Massive Machine Type Communications (mMTC).The introduction of 5G services depends on 5G equipment and device ecosystem, and economic considerations by the telecom service providers.
(c) to (e) United States has intimated about the use of 5G clean path to protect the data and networks of US diplomatic facilities. The 5G clean path is an end to end communication path that does not use any equipment from untrusted vendor.
To address security concerns of telecom network, security conditions are incorporated in the license conditions of telecom service providers. National Centre for Communication Security (NCCS), Bengaluru has also been established and has been entrusted with the task of preparation of Indian telecom security assurance requirements.

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