India at a crossroads – private 5G setback as telcos push back?

India’s private 5G spectrum policy remains undecided, with operators resisting liberalisation. COAI argues that an operator-led model is the only solution for India’s unique industrial setup – while the rest of the market warns a failure to deliver urgent regulatory change could stifle industrial digitalisation and economic revitalisation.

In sum – what to know:

Demand review – government reviewing direct private 5G spectrum licensing amid operator opposition.

Lobbying letter – carrier alliance, COAI, wanted about the cost, security, revenue risks in bypassing telcos.

Crunch time – suppliers and commentators warn restrictive private 5G spectrum policy will curb Industry 4.0.

It looks increasingly likely that India will resist liberalising private 5G spectrum for enterprises to run