BSNL and NRL Ink Landmark MoU to Pioneer 5G-Powered Industry 4.0 Transformation in India

New Delhi, Aug 3 : In a significant push toward India’s digital and industrial transformation, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies across India’s industrial ecosystem.

The MoU was formalized during the “Industry 4.0 Workshop for CPSEs,” held in Guwahati under the aegis of the Ministry of Finance. The workshop was attended by senior dignitaries, including the Secretary of the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), CMD NRL, Director (Enterprise Business) BSNL, MD NRL, MD AMTRON, and senior officials from various Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs).

Under this strategic partnership, BSNL and NRL will collaborate to deploy India’s first 5G Captive Non-Public Network (CNPN) in the refinery sector. This network will serve as a secure, ultra-reliable, and real-time communication system, enabling the adoption of transformative Industry 4.0 technologies such as Digital Twins, 3D Printing with AI, Virtual Formulation, Augmented and Mixed Reality (AR/VR/MR), IoT, and Big Data Analytics.

CMD, BSNL, Shri A. Robert J. Ravi hailed the agreement as a technological leap forward, saying, “This partnership exemplifies BSNL’s commitment to empowering India’s strategic sectors with next-generation digital infrastructure. The deployment of a dedicated 5G CNPN at NRL will redefine how core industries operate, ensuring not just enhanced connectivity but a digitally intelligent and self-reliant Bharat.”

CMD NRL emphasized that the integration of 5G technology will boost operational efficiency, enhance cybersecurity, and enable advanced applications such as AR/VR-based workforce training and real-time IoT-based monitoring. He termed the move a “game-changer” for the refinery industry in India.

The Secretary of DPE praised the initiative as a shining example of the Government’s “Whole of Government” (WoG) approach, which aims to integrate technological innovation across public enterprises. He noted that the collaboration will help modernize India’s industrial base, support advanced skilling, and generate employment—especially in the North Eastern Region.

Director (Enterprise Business), BSNL reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to driving Digital India by delivering secure and robust communication networks. He highlighted the significance of the MoU in promoting scalable 5G solutions for other CPSEs and core industries.

The BSNL-NRL partnership is expected to serve as a replicable model across various sectors, bolstering the Government of India’s vision for a digitally empowered and self-reliant economy.