Guwahati: In a bid to accelerate India’s digital transformation and industrial modernization, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This agreement was signed during the “Industry 4.0 Workshop for CPSEs” organized under the aegis of the Ministry of Finance in Guwahati on August 2.
The event, attended by senior dignitaries including the Secretary, Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), CMD NRL, Director (Enterprise Business) BSNL, MD NRL, MD AMTRON, and officials from various CPSEs, focused on enabling Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) to embrace Industry 4.0 technologies.
Discussions revolved around the integration of advanced solutions such as 5G Captive Non-Public Network (CNPN), Digital Twins, AR/VR/MR, IoT, Big Data Analytics, and AI-driven innovations to boost efficiency, sustainability, and self-reliance under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Taking to X, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma wrote, “Proud moment for Assam! @BSNLCorporate & @NRL_MoPNG have signed an MoU to set up India’s 1st 5G Captive Non-Public Network in the refinery sector. A big leap for #DigitalAssam & #AtmanirbharBharat-ushering IoT, AR/VR, Big Data into our industrial future!”
Under this MoU, BSNL and NRL will jointly implement India’s first 5G CNPN in the refinery sector, marking a pioneering step towards deploying indigenous 5G infrastructure for mission-critical industrial operations. This secure and ultra-reliable network will support real-time applications, advanced monitoring, and automation.
The Secretary, DPE lauded the collaboration as a model of the Government’s “Whole of Government” approach, highlighting its potential to modernize the industrial base, promote advanced skilling, and create employment opportunities, particularly in the North East region.
CMD NRL stated that the integration of 5G CNPN will enhance operational efficiency, cybersecurity, and facilitate technologies like AR/VR-based workforce training, Digital Twins, and real-time IoT solutions.
“The deployment of a dedicated 5G CNPN at NRL is a technological leap forward—not only in connectivity but in redefining how core industries can operate in the future. BSNL is proud to pioneer this journey toward a self-reliant, digitally intelligent Bharat,” A. Robert J. Ravi, CMD BSNL, said.
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The partnership aims to create a scalable model that can be replicated across other sectors, reinforcing the government’s vision for a digitally empowered and self-reliant Bharat.
