Reliance Jio Urges Government to Frame Policy to Shut Down 2G and 3G Services

Vodafone Idea (Vi) has requested the Centre to formulate a plan to shift 2G users to 4G and 5G networks.

Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea Propose 2G and 3G Network Shutdown for Digital Transformation

In response to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) consulting paper on Digital Transformation through 5G Ecosystem, both Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea (Vi) have suggested a policy to phase out 2G and 3G networks in India. The proposal aims to migrate existing users to more advanced 4G and 5G networks, streamlining connectivity and promoting the development of the 5G ecosystem.

Addressing the need for a strategic approach, Reliance Jio emphasized, “The Government should come out with a policy and glidepath for closing down the 2G and 3G networks completely so that unnecessary network costs should be avoided, and all customers can be migrated to 4G and 5G services.” The telecom giant believes this move will not only optimize network resources but also contribute to the flourishing 5G use cases.

Similarly, Vodafone Idea echoed the sentiment, stating that barriers to the adoption of 4G and 5G technologies contribute to a digital divide and hinder the progress of the 5G ecosystem. It emphasized that the cost of smartphones, particularly for low-income groups, poses a significant challenge, preventing a smooth transition to higher network bandwidths.

Two significant challenges were highlighted in the suggestions: the prevalence of 2G/3G-capable phones in India and the affordability of 4G and 5G smartphones for rural and remote populations. Vodafone Idea stressed the importance of addressing these issues to ensure a seamless shift to advanced networks.

Additionally, Reliance Jio emphasized the critical need for an ample allocation of spectrum bands for effective 5G connectivity. The suggested auctioning of the 6GHz band, full C-Band, and 28GHz (on a flexible use basis) aligns with the planned auctions of the E-Band and V-Band spectrum.

It’s crucial to note that these are recommendations presented to TRAI, and their implementation is not guaranteed. The government would need to consider various factors, including the potential impact on users and the overall digital infrastructure. If the proposal moves forward, citizens can expect a well-planned transition with support from the government.