5G - What Does it Mean to Bharat?: Rural Connectivity, e-commerce, Healthcare and Education.

5G technology is poised to revolutionize the world in previously unimaginable ways. Its potential to transform industries and economies is enormous, and India is no exception. As the country rolled out India’s 5G technology, Interestingly our telecom companies have surpassed the 3-year rollout target in six months. As a technology enthusiast, I was curious to examine the benefits that it can bring to Bharat, particularly in terms of rural connectivity, Commerce, Healthcare and Education.

Rural Connectivity

We all know how the current mobile connectivity has transformed our lives, with the introduction of 5G we may start seeing possibilities which were unheard of, the most significant benefit of 5G technology for Bharat is its potential to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas. Currently, a large portion of the Indian population resides in rural areas, where access to high-speed internet and digital services is limited. However, with 5G technology, rural areas can be connected to the rest of the world at previously unimaginable speeds. Trust me a day might come when our gig and tech workers would shift to villages for more peaceful living and yet stay connected.

5G networks are capable of providing speeds up to 100 times faster than current 4G networks. This means that rural areas can enjoy the same level of connectivity as urban areas, making it possible for farmers and other rural entrepreneurs to participate in the digital economy. This will have a significant impact on the growth of rural businesses and the overall economy of Bharat.

Commerce

Another area where 5G technology can have a significant impact is e-commerce. With the rise of e-commerce, more and more consumers are turning to online shopping. However, slow internet speeds in some parts of the country can make it difficult for consumers to access these platforms. With 5G technology, online shopping can become a more seamless experience for consumers, particularly in rural areas. High-speed internet will make it possible for consumers to browse and purchase products quickly and efficiently, regardless of their location. This will not only benefit consumers but also small businesses that rely on e-commerce platforms to reach a wider audience. I am sure 5G would add wings to ONDC (Open Network for Digital Economy) an initiative from the central government.

Healthcare

5G can enable remote consultations, telemedicine, and virtual surgeries. This can significantly improve access to medical services, particularly in rural areas with limited healthcare infrastructure. 5G can also enable the use of connected medical devices that can monitor patients' health in real-time, alerting healthcare professionals to any potential issues. The technology can also facilitate medical education and training, enabling healthcare professionals in Bharat to stay up to date with the latest medical practices and technologies. This major upgrade in connectivity can enhance the impact of policies and schemes such as Ayushman Bharath, National Digital Health Mission etc.

Education

The impact of 5G technology on education in Bharat cannot be overstated. With high-speed internet, students in rural areas can access online learning resources previously unavailable. This can help bridge the gap in educational outcomes between urban and rural areas and ensure that all students have access to the same educational opportunities.

In addition, 5G technology can enable the delivery of high-quality video content that can enhance the learning experience for students. This can include virtual reality experiences that can transport students to different parts of the world, bringing their lessons to life in a way that was not possible before.