Question : 5G Network

(a) whether the department of telecom has initiated the trial process of rolling out 5G network in the country and if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether the Government has discussed the road map for trials with all major telecom operators and equipment vendors;

(c) if so, the details and the outcome thereof;

(d) whether the Government has taken note of the security concerns including surveillance over 5G technology trials and if so, the details thereof;

(e) the time by which the 5G network service is likely to be started in the country; and

(f) the steps taken/being taken by the Government to prevent the participation of Chinese Companies in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS, EDUCATION AND
ELECTRONICS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
(SHRI SANJAY DHOTRE)
(a) to (c) The Department of Telecommunications has not initiated the process of rolling out 5G network as yet. However, steps have been initiated for trials of India specific 5G applications and use cases. 5G technology trials are envisaged to demonstrate India specific Use cases in limited geographical area, for a limited period, in an isolated network environment and for non-commercial purposes.
(d) to (f) To address security concerns including surveillance the department has comprehensive security conditions as part of Licence agreement. 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. Introduction of 5G network services depends on development of 5G equipment and device ecosystem and also economic and commercial considerations of the telecom service providers.

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