BSNL Deploys India’s First Private 5G Network
State-owned telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has entered into a significant agreement with Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL). Under this pact, BSNL will set up the country’s first private 5G network (Captive Non-Public Network – CNPN) at the Numaligarh Refinery. This initiative marks a landmark move in adopting 5G technology in the refinery sector, further strengthening India’s push into the digital age for industries.
Purpose and Significance of the Agreement
The agreement was signed during the “Industry 4.0 Workshop for CPSEs” organised under the Ministry of Home Affairs. It is being seen as a major step forward in the direction of industrial digitalisation. The private 5G network to be deployed by BSNL will provide secure, reliable and real-time connectivity for mission-critical operations. Its primary aim is to make operations at Numaligarh Refinery more efficient, faster and safer.
NRL’s Managing Director Bhaskar Jyoti Phukan stated that the introduction of the 5G CNPN will improve the refinery’s operational efficiency and strengthen cyber security. He added that it will also open doors to the use of cutting-edge technologies such as AR/VR-based training, digital twins, and real-time IoT applications – all of which are poised to drive the next phase of industrial transformation.
Integration of Industry 4.0 Technologies
The project will not only bring 5G connectivity but will also focus on adopting several modern technologies. These include digital twins, AI-driven 3D printing, virtual formulation, AR/VR/MR (Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Mixed Reality), Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics. The integration of these advanced solutions will not just enhance refinery operations but also push the entire industrial ecosystem towards the next frontier of ‘Industry 4.0’.
BSNL’s Role and Future Challenges
BSNL’s Director (Enterprise Business) Sudhakarrao Papa described this initiative as a game-changer for India’s telecom sector. He remarked, “This is not just a shift in connectivity – it will fundamentally transform the way industries operate. As the national telecom operator, BSNL is proud to be part of this milestone project.”
BSNL Chairman and Managing Director A. Robert J. Ravi also emphasised that the project demonstrates the company’s commitment to strengthening India’s digital infrastructure. He underlined that the network will play a crucial role in enhancing digital security and efficiency in the country’s strategic sectors.
However, experts believe there are still challenges in the deployment of 5G-based private networks. Many industries in India remain cautious about adopting the technology, primarily due to uncertainties around immediate returns on investment. Nevertheless, the Numaligarh Refinery initiative is expected to accelerate the development of industrial 5G networks in India, encouraging both public and private sector enterprises to benefit from it in the future.
Progress of 5G Networks in India
Earlier in April 2025, telecom startup Tidal Wave deployed a private 5G network at Coal India using BSNL’s spectrum. However, the Numaligarh Refinery installation will be the first dedicated 5G network exclusively designed for refinery services and operations. This highlights the growing momentum of captive 5G networks in India’s industrial landscape.
Economic and Social Benefits
This initiative goes beyond technological advancement; it also supports India’s ‘Digital India’ mission and the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. Being established in the Northeast region, the network will boost skill development, job creation, industrial efficiency, and overall economic growth. It also sets an example of how state-owned enterprises are increasingly embracing modern technologies.
Conclusion
The agreement between BSNL and Numaligarh Refinery is being hailed as the beginning of a new era for 5G applications in India. This project will not only drive digital transformation within the refinery but will also make the broader industrial sector more competitive and secure with advanced technologies. Once operational, the network is expected to become the backbone of India’s industrial communication infrastructure and position the country firmly on the global technological map.
This initiative stands as an inspiration for India’s telecom and industrial sectors, showcasing the successful application of modern technologies that will propel the nation towards Industry 4.0 and future-ready manufacturing.
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