Bharti Airtel, one of India’s leading telecommunications operators, has recently announced its plans for the refarming of the 4G spectrum in select existing bands across the country. This move is aimed at improving 5G coverage in state and rural regions, particularly in areas classified as B & C circles, where the demand for high-speed network services is expected to surge in the coming years. The company’s Chairman, Sunil Mittal, has also reported a significant increase in data usage in these regions, making it imperative for Airtel to enhance its network infrastructure.
The decision to refarm the 4G spectrum is a strategic move by Airtel to prepare for the upcoming 5G revolution in India. With the government’s aim to roll out 5G services in the country by 2022, Airtel is taking proactive steps to provide seamless and high-speed connectivity to its customers. This will not only help the company stay ahead of its competitors but also contribute to the government’s vision of a digitally empowered society.
According to reports, Airtel has already started the process of refarming in select circles, including Tamil Nadu and Bihar, with plans to expand to other states in the coming months. The company will be using its existing 900 MHz and 2100 MHz bands to provide 5G services, which will enable faster data speeds and better coverage in both urban and rural areas. This will also result in a significant cost-saving for Airtel, as it will not have to invest in acquiring new spectrum.
The refarming of spectrum will not only benefit Airtel but also its customers in the B & C circles. These regions have traditionally been underserved in terms of network coverage and speed due to the high cost of infrastructure deployment. However, with Airtel’s refarming plans, these areas will now have access to high-speed 5G services, which will open up new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike. This move is a testament to Airtel’s commitment to bridging the digital divide in the country and providing equal opportunities for all.
The refarming of spectrum will also have a positive impact on the overall digital economy of India. With improved network coverage and faster data speeds, there will be a surge in data consumption, leading to the growth of various sectors such as e-commerce, e-governance, and digital payments. This will also attract investments in these regions, creating job opportunities and boosting economic growth.
Airtel’s refarming plans have been met with great enthusiasm by industry experts and analysts. They believe that this move will not only help Airtel strengthen its position in the market but also set a benchmark for other telcos to follow. It will also encourage healthy competition in the telecom sector, ultimately benefiting the customers with better services and prices.
The refarming of spectrum is just one of the many steps taken by Airtel to improve its network and customer experience. The company has also been investing in advanced technologies like Massive MIMO and Cloud-based networks to enhance its 4G services and prepare for the 5G rollout. Additionally, Airtel has been expanding its fiber network across the country, which will support the high-speed data requirements of 5G services.
In conclusion, Airtel’s decision to embark on the refarming of 4G spectrum is a significant move that will not only benefit the company but also contribute to the growth of the Indian telecom sector. With this step, Airtel is reaffirming its commitment to providing the best-in-class services to its customers and bridging the digital divide in the country. As India gears up for the 5G revolution, Airtel is well-positioned to lead the way and empower millions of Indians with high-speed connectivity and digital inclusion.
