Vodafone Idea has raised concerns over integration challenges in India’s telco-led private 5G service model. While demand for private 5G is strong, issues around IT/OT interoperability, spectrum constraints, and business-case planning are slowing adoption. The company urges structured solutions to unlock Industry 4.0 and IoT opportunities across enterprises.
India’s push for a telco-led private 5G service model faces hurdles, according to Vodafone Idea. Speaking at the UPTIME Forum, executives highlighted that despite strong enterprise interest, deployments are stalling due to integration gaps between IT and operational technology (OT), as well as fragmented planning of industrial use cases.
Vodafone Idea noted that while telcos are ready with IoT service bundles, enterprises struggle with aligning digital infrastructure and operational systems. Additionally, spectrum allocation under a carrier-controlled regime and dense urban environments make standalone private 5G deployments difficult, limiting scalability.
Industry experts argue that resolving these challenges is critical for India’s ambition to become a global hub for Industry 4.0, smart manufacturing, and advanced IoT ecosystems.
Major Takeaways
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Vodafone Idea warns of IT/OT integration gaps slowing private 5G adoption
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Spectrum constraints under carrier-led regime hinder standalone deployments
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Enterprises face business-case planning failures despite strong demand
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Telcos prepared with IoT service bundles, but uptake remains limited
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Addressing gaps is vital for Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing growth
Conclusion
India’s private 5G journey highlights both promise and challenges. Vodafone Idea’s concerns underscore the need for structured integration frameworks, flexible spectrum policies, and clearer enterprise use-case planning to fully realize the transformative potential of private 5G.
Sources: Reuters, UPTIME Forum coverage, Telecom Industry Reports