Telecom Gear Vendors Seek Govt Intervention Against Chinese Imports

Introduction

In recent times, domestic telecom gear vendors in India have raised concerns about the import of telecom equipment from China. These vendors, including well-known names like Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Tejas Networks, HFCL, and Sterlite Technologies (STL), believe that relying on Chinese imports goes against the spirit of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India). Let’s delve into the details.

Why the Concern?

• Atmanirbhar Bharat: The Indian government has been emphasizing self-reliance and promoting indigenous manufacturing. However, the import of telecom equipment from China contradicts this vision.
• Business Impact: The reliance on Chinese imports could have implications for the growth and competitiveness of the Indian telecom industry.

BharatNet III Bidders

• Solo Bids: Some domestic optical fiber cable (OFC) manufacturers, such as Polycab, STL, and HFCL, submitted individual bids for BharatNet III.
• Consortium Approach: Interestingly, 18 bidders took a collaborative approach by forming consortia. Notable names include G R Infraprojects, Vindhya Telelinks, and others.

Pratap Technocrats’ Expansion

• Company Profile: Pratap Technocrats manages an impressive network of over 90,000 cell sites. Their ambitious goal is to exceed 1.20 lakh sites within the next two years.
• Fiber Management: The company oversees six lakh square meters of fiber across India, serving both government and private operators.

Conclusion

The telecom industry’s growth and self-reliance goals are at the forefront of these discussions. As vendors seek government support to curb Chinese imports, companies like Pratap Technocrats continue to expand their infrastructure in the Indian telecom sector.