Guwahati: In a landmark push toward industrial modernization, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) signed a transformative Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the “Industry 4.0 Workshop for CPSEs” held under the Ministry of Finance. The collaboration aims to deploy India’s first 5G CNPN (Captive Non-Public Network) within the refinery sector—marking a major milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey.
Unleashing Industry 4.0 in Core Sectors
The workshop brought together top officials from the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), Ministry of Finance, and key CPSEs. Delegates discussed the adoption of advanced Industry 4.0 technologies, including 5G, IoT, Digital Twins, AR/VR, AI, and Big Data, to foster innovation, enhance productivity, and promote Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The MoU will see BSNL and NRL collaborate on implementing ultra-secure, real-time industrial connectivity using indigenous 5G infrastructure. This initiative is a key step toward integrating futuristic digital technologies in India’s core industries.
Strategic Connectivity for a Self-Reliant Bharat
The Secretary, DPE hailed the partnership as a model of the Government’s “Whole of Government” (WoG) approach. He emphasized its role in driving advanced skilling, employment, and digital empowerment in the North Eastern Region.
CMD NRL underlined that the 5G CNPN rollout will enhance cybersecurity, enable AR/VR-based training, and support critical applications like Digital Twins and real-time IoT systems—bringing a paradigm shift to refinery operations.
CMD BSNL, Mr. A. Robert J. Ravi, called the collaboration a bold technological stride. “This partnership exemplifies BSNL’s commitment to empowering India’s strategic sectors with next-generation digital infrastructure,” he said, terming it a step toward a self-reliant and digitally intelligent Bharat.
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A Replicable Model for India’s Industrial Future
Director (Enterprise Business), BSNL, highlighted the initiative as a milestone in 5G adoption for CPSEs. He reiterated BSNL’s commitment to building future-ready communication networks that support Digital India’s goals.
The BSNL-NRL alliance is poised to serve as a replicable model for other industrial sectors, catalyzing large-scale Industry 4.0 adoption across India.
About BSNL
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is a public sector telecom company under the Ministry of Communications. Known for its pan-India telecom footprint, BSNL is playing a crucial role in providing secure, indigenous, and future-ready connectivity infrastructure across sectors.
About NRL
Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL), a subsidiary of Oil India Limited, operates one of the most advanced refineries in the North East. It is committed to sustainable growth, digital innovation, and strengthening the region’s industrial base.
