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  • Ashok Leyland Expands Network in West Bengal with New LCV Dealership in Siliguri

    Ashok Leyland Expands

    Chandigarh22nd November 2024 Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer inaugurated its dealership for Light Commercial Vehicles in Siliguri, West Bengal. This is the 5th Light Commercial Vehicle dealership in West Bengal. The new channel partner Happie Trucking, has a sales facility strategically located at Eastern Bypass Road, SBM Warehouse, Eastern Bypass, Bhaktinagar, Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, West Bengal 734004. While the main Workshop facility (Service and Spares) is tactically located at Debgram, Ware House, Thakur Nagar, New Jalpaiguri, Jalpaiguri, West Bengal 735135. The facility has advanced tools, quick service bays, and sophisticated infrastructure to ensure superior customer experience. The company currently offers a range of LCV products – BADA DOST, DOST, PARTNER and MiTR.

    Mr. Viplav Shah, Head – LCV Business, Ashok Leyland said, “We are excited to further strengthen our presence in this region. West Bengal and Eastern India at large, have been a key market for us. We have always recognized the potential this region has and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead in this geography. We have been working on creating a strong foothold in the region, and the new dealership in Siliguri will bolster our presence in this geography. The overwhelming success of our ‘DOST Range’ and now the ‘BADA DOST’ can be attributed to the robustness of our products and the extensive reach of our network. All our products have been receiving great responses from our customers, thanks to their best-in-class mileage and class-leading performance, backed by extensive sales and aftersales support. We are extremely proud that our track record of service retention levels is exemplary with close to 70% of our customers returning to our dealer workshops, even after the warranty period. We, as always, would remain committed to maintaining and even enhancing the level of customer service and satisfaction. This new dealership is being opened to further strengthen our reach, in line with our commitment.”

    Ashok Leyland’s products are launched to meet the evolving needs of Indian LCV customers by offering best-in-class technology at competitive costs. Now, there are more than five lakh LCVs across India.

    The recently launched BADA DOST is the first product to be built on an all-new robust LCV platform and has four variants, i2, i3+, i4, and i5. It is powered by an 80 hp BS6 engine that delivers best-in-class power & mileage, best-in-class payload, and best-in-class load body length and loading space that helps customers earn more profit per trip. Owing to its low turning radius and best-in-class ground clearance, BADA DOST is the ideal vehicle for inter and intra-city applications and can negotiate all terrains with ease.

    DOST range comes in the following avatars – DOST LiTE, DOST STRONG, and DOST+ to cater to different sections of the market and applications.

    PARTNER, a modern & highly fuel-efficient load carrier, caters to the 3.5 – 4.8 ton payload segment and is available in both 4 tyre and 6 tyre options. It comes with Load body options of 10ft, 11ft, 14ft and 17ft. PARTNER is based on an internationally acclaimed vehicle platform & carries the renowned ZD30 CRDI engine.

    MiTR bus, based on the same platform as PARTNER, comes in both standard bus & school bus options. It provides superior mileage even in stop and go conditions. MiTR School Bus complies with all school bus safety norms & compliance codes and offers unmatched ride comfort.

    BADA DOST, DOST, PARTNER, and MiTR are manufactured at Ashok Leyland’s state-of-the-art Hosur plant.

    BADA DOST is available at Rs.10,98,000/- i5, Rs.10,44,500/- i4(LNT) & Rs.10,24,500/-i4(SCR) , Rs.10,06,500/-i3+ & Rs.8,59,000/- i2 variant.

    DOST LiTE, DOST Strong and DOST+ are available at a competitive price starting from Rs-7, 92,000/-

    PARTNER is available at an attractive price starting from Rs. 17,00,000/-

    MITR Bus is priced competitively starting from Rs. 22, 39,000 /-

    Ashok Leyland has one of the largest and fastest-growing networks in the CV space. Its robust network of more than 1700 exclusive outlets ensures the availability of authorized Service centers at every 75 KMS on major Highways.


    Joseph Andrew

  • Stanford Seed Network Unveils South Asia Conclave 2024

    INDIA: The Stanford Seed Transformation Network will be organizing the 3-day South Asia Annual Conclave 2024 in Goa from 28th to 30th November. This year’s conclave promises to be an inspiring gathering of entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and innovators from across South Asia aimed at fostering collaboration and driving business growth in the region. The conclave will be joined by eminent speakers like Rohit Kapoor, CEO, Swiggy – Food marketplace; Aparna Popat, Double Olympian and 16-time National Badminton Champion; Darius Teter, Executive Director, Stanford Seed; Dr. Rohini Rau, Gold medalist at the Asian Sailing Championship; Satyarup Siddhanta, Guinness World Record-holding Mountaineer amongst many others.

    “The South Asia Conclave is a powerful gathering of ambitious minds and innovative ideas,” said Abhishek Modi, President of the Stanford Seed Transformation Network (South Asia) and Managing Partner, of Shiva Engineering. “This event is more than just an opportunity to connect—it’s a catalyst for deep learning from experts, peer-to-peer insights, and the chance to rethink and reset. This year the conclave’s theme is ACT, and our sessions are curated to enable entrepreneurs to Adapt, Connect, and Thrive (ACT).”

    Modi continued, “Through the Stanford Seed Transformation Program, a strategic initiative of Stanford Graduate School of Business, we’re committed to helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses through hands-on training, lifelong mentorship, and a global network of peers. The conclave, along with other initiatives of the network, aims to support graduates of this program by providing continuous opportunities for learning, business enablement, and mentorship.”

    The 10-month Stanford Seed program is a high-touch program for CEOs & Founders of SMEs in South Asia and is taught & delivered by Stanford Graduate School of Business faculty. Initiated in India in 2017 following its initial presence in Africa, the program has now expanded across South Asia with over 370+ Entrepreneurs in the network in the South Asia Chapter and 1100+ globally.

    Harish Arnezath, Regional Director of Stanford Seed (South Asia), “The Stanford Seed program aims to end the cycle of global poverty by helping entrepreneurs build thriving businesses that create jobs and drive economic growth.” Focused on emerging markets, the program provides participants access to world-class resources, including learning materials from Stanford faculty, a global network of business leaders, and a tailored curriculum that addresses specific business challenges. The South Asia chapter has now expanded to four countries and over 370 entrepreneurs who boast a collective revenue of $950 million and employ more than 60,000 people.”

    Harish Arnezath, Regional Director of Stanford Seed (South Asia), further added, “We are committed to empowering small and medium businesses in South Asia to scale up and reach their full potential. This Conclave provides an excellent platform for our entrepreneurs to engage in peer learning, exchange ideas, and gain actionable insights to drive their growth and resilience in an ever-changing business environment.”

    Participants in the Stanford Seed program benefit from a unique curriculum that combines academic rigor with practical application. The program emphasizes real-world learning and encourages participants to develop actionable strategies that can be implemented immediately within their businesses. 

    “The Stanford Seed program has been a transformative experience for me as an entrepreneur. The enriching course material, paired with in-company workshops, ensures that the insights are not just personal but drive meaningful growth across the entire leadership team, fostering alignment and collective progress. The business transformation advisors challenge you to think deeply and strategically at every step, while the incredible network has given me lifelong friends and collaborators. I cannot recommend this program enough to anyone serious about scaling their business with impact and purpose”, says Rashi Narang, Founder, of Heads Up for Tails, Stanford Seed Program Alumni.

    The Stanford Seed Transformation Network, South Asia invites aspiring entrepreneurs to apply for the  Stanford Seed Transformation Program (STP). This is an opportunity to join a vibrant community dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across South Asia. Interested individuals can learn more about the program and apply at the Stanford Seed Program. 

  • Building Tomorrow’s Network: Foundations in Routing and Switching

    network

    With expertise in networking fundamentals, this article by  Ravi Theja Kambhampati examines the core elements forming today’s network infrastructure backbone. It highlights innovations in routing and switching that enhance digital communications, optimizing network performance, security, and scalability for modern systems.

    The Backbone of Network Communication

    As digital systems become more complex, routing and switching are essential for seamless communication across devices. Layer 2 switching and Layer 3 routing optimize traffic flow within local and wide-area networks. Switches enhance LAN performance with VLANs and trunking, while routing ensures reliable communication across segments using protocols like OSPF and BGP.

    Layer 2 Switching: Enhancing Local Connectivity

    Switching, functioning at Layer 2 of the OSI model, efficiently directs local network traffic using Media Access Control (MAC) addresses to route data to specific devices, reducing congestion and broadcast traffic. VLANs offer network segmentation, creating logical divisions within the same infrastructure for improved security and flexibility. Trunking facilitates multiple VLANs over a single link, simplifying management. Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) prevents loops, while Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) and Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP) enable faster convergence for complex configurations.

    Optimizing LAN Performance with Advanced Switching

    Advanced strategies like link aggregation and Quality of Service (QoS) optimize LAN performance. Link aggregation increases bandwidth and redundancy, while QoS prioritizes critical data streams, ensuring resources for high-priority applications and efficient handling of high-demand workloads.
    Routing at Layer 3: Directing Traffic Across Networks

    Operating at Layer 3 of the OSI model, the Network Layer, routing allows routers to direct data across networks by evaluating IP addresses for optimal packet paths. Protocols like OSPF and EIGRP improve efficiency by dynamically adjusting routes. BGP manages internet routing between autonomous systems, while MPLS prioritizes traffic, ensuring reliable data flow across networks.

    Routing Table Management for Performance and Security
    Effective routing table management is crucial for network efficiency. Route summarization and data filtering minimize table size and boost scalability, while advanced techniques like policy-based and segment routing allow dynamic traffic control, optimizing resource use and ensuring network resilience.

    Security at the Core: Layered Defenses in Switching and Routing

    Security in routing and switching is critical, with each layer bolstering an organization’s protection. Layer 2 tools like port security, DHCP snooping, and ARP inspection prevent unauthorized access and counter threats. Layer 3 defenses, including ACLs, firewalls, and VPNs, create a robust defense. ACLs filter traffic, while IPsec encryption ensures data integrity, reducing vulnerabilities and enabling secure communication.

    Integrating Routing and Switching for Optimal Performance

    Routing and switching together create a cohesive network infrastructure. Multilayer switching combines Layer 2 and Layer 3 functions to enhance data flow and reduce latency, while load balancing prevents congestion by distributing traffic evenly. This collaboration boosts network efficiency and ensures uninterrupted service in high-demand environments.

    Advanced Network Design: Route Redistribution and Quality of Service (QoS)

    As networks grow, advanced concepts like route redistribution and Quality of Service (QoS) are essential. Route redistribution shares information between protocols, ensuring efficient data flow and preventing loops, while QoS prioritizes applications and manages bandwidth, enhancing performance and user experience in complex network environments.

    Real-World Applications of Routing and Switching

    Routing and switching principles are crucial across industries, ensuring reliable network services for enterprise operations, security, and telecommunications. They support stable, high-speed connections, enhance firewalls, VPNs, and segmentation, and optimize telecom and cloud services to manage data flow and minimize latency in 5G and IoT applications.

    In conclusion, routing and switching are vital for building resilient, scalable network infrastructures that ensure secure, efficient data flow.  Ravi Theja Kambhampati‘s insights highlight the enduring impact of these principles, essential for developing robust, future-ready networks that meet the demands of an increasingly connected world.

  • Revolutionizing IoT and Network Security with Kafka and Secure Proxies

    Apache Kafka

    Introducing a novel approach to data streaming and security in IoT, this article explores how the combined strengths of Apache Kafka and secure proxies can transform the field. With expertise in data management,  SreenivasaRao Jagarlamudi reveals how these technologies streamline complex processes while ensuring rigorous data privacy standards.

    Enhancing IoT Data Flow: Kafka’s Role in Real-Time Processing

    Apache Kafka, known for its high-throughput and distributed streaming capabilities, is crucial for handling large data streams in IoT applications. Its architecture facilitates seamless data transfer between IoT devices, such as sensors and industrial systems. Kafka’s partitioning and publish-subscribe model enhance scalability and reliability, efficiently supporting massive data volumes. With low latency and exactly-once semantics, Kafka is ideal for real-time applications like healthcare and industrial automation.

    Driving Analytics with Streaming SQL: The Power of KSQL

    ksqlDB, formerly KSQL, is a powerful SQL-based engine built for Kafka, bringing real-time analytics to streaming data and making it accessible for SQL-trained data engineers and analysts. With features like filtering, joining, and aggregating data across streams, ksqlDB enables rapid insights without complex development. In IoT, it supports applications such as manufacturing anomaly detection, providing invaluable, real-time insights for smart cities and utilities.

    Simplifying Data Integration with Kafka Connect

    With expanding IoT ecosystems, integrating diverse data sources is essential. Kafka Connect offers a standardized framework linking Kafka to external systems like cloud storage and databases, simplifying data ingestion from protocols like MQTT, widely used in sensor communication. It provides scalability, fault tolerance, and exactly-once processing, supporting pre-built and custom connectors for consistent, adaptable IoT data pipelines.

    Reinforcing Security: The Role of Secure Proxies

    Data security is essential in today’s IoT landscape, with rising cyber threats and stringent privacy regulations. Secure proxies safeguard data transmissions between IoT devices and back-end systems through SSL/TLS encryption, content filtering, and access control to prevent unauthorized access. Research shows well-optimized secure proxies add minimal latency, ensuring strong privacy for IoT environments demanding high throughput and low latency.

    Ensuring Data Privacy Compliance with Secure Proxies

    Global data privacy laws, such as GDPR and CCPA, require strong data controls. Secure proxies aid compliance by centralizing access, logging, and facilitating audits, ensuring that only authorized users access sensitive data. Configurations like data masking, encryption, and role-based controls make secure proxies essential for privacy and efficient data flow in continuously transmitting IoT environments.

    Integrating Secure Proxies in a Zero Trust Framework

    The Zero Trust security model, founded on the principle of “never trust, always verify,” is essential for IoT ecosystems handling sensitive data. Secure proxies bolster this approach by offering granular access controls, continuous monitoring, and centralized policy enforcement. Combining Zero Trust with secure proxies allows IoT networks to tightly control device access and data flow, reducing attack surfaces and mitigating complex threats.

    Defending Against Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

    Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks threaten IoT systems by enabling attackers to intercept and modify communications. Secure proxies mitigate this risk with SSL/TLS validation, HTTP Strict Transport Security (HSTS), and certificate pinning. Additionally, anomaly detection in secure proxies strengthens defenses against MITM attempts, bolstering IoT environments against this common threat.

    Balancing Performance with Security

    Adding secure proxies to IoT systems can impact data flow due to extra security layers. However, techniques like connection pooling, caching, SSL/TLS session reuse, and load balancing help balance performance and security. Optimized proxies enable IoT applications to protect data while efficiently handling latency-sensitive tasks like real-time sensor readings.

    In conclusion,  SreenivasaRao Jagarlamudi illustrates how Kafka and secure proxies are vital to the future of IoT security, addressing key challenges like data throughput, real-time analytics, and compliance. This synergy enables organizations to build secure, efficient, and compliant IoT frameworks as ecosystems expand.

  • S Jaishankar to visit Singapore to attend 8th Roundtable of ASEAN – India Network of Think Tanks

    Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to visit Singapore next week
    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to visit Singapore on November 8. Photo Courtesy: Avishek Mitra/IBNS

    Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will visit Singapore to attend the 8th Roundtable of ASEAN – India Network of Think Tanks.

    According to a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, Jaishankar will meet the leadership of Singapore to review the close partnership between the two countries and explore avenues to further enhance the bilateral relationship.

    Ahead of his visit to Singapore, Jaishankar will reach Australia from October 3 to  October 7.

    “During the visit, EAM will travel to Brisbane and inaugurate India’s 4th consulate in Australia. EAM will also co-chair the 15th Foreign Ministers’ Framework Dialogue (FMFD) with Australian Foreign Minister H.E. Ms. Penny Wong in Canberra,” the statement said.

    Jaishankar will deliver the keynote address at the inaugural session of the 2nd Raisina Down Under to be held in the Australian Parliament House.

    He is also scheduled to have interactions with Australian leadership, parliamentarians, members of the Indian diaspora, business community, media and think tanks.

  • Ola Electric Expands Service Network By 30%

    India’s biggest e-scooter maker Ola Electric has ramped up capacity at its service centres across the country by over 30 per cent to transform its service and elevate the after-sales experience of customers, sources said.

    The Softbank Group-backed firm, which commands nearly a third of the market share in India’s e-scooter market, has added more than 50 service centres and has hired over 500 service technicians across new and existing service centres to streamline operations and clear all backlogs. The company reportedly has also onboarded Ernst & Young for service transformation, strategy, and optimisation of overall service processes. The development comes in the backdrop of some centres reporting backlogs as demand outstripped their workforce.

    A senior company executive, who requested not to be named, said, “The company has added over 50 centres to its service network and has onboarded more than 500 service technicians across new and existing centres across the country”.

    “The company has silently been gathering all forces to overcome its service backlog. The company has already cleared around two-thirds of the service backlog and should be able to clear the remaining in the next couple of weeks,” added another senior official within the organisation, requesting anonymity.

    Ola was in the spotlight earlier this month following a public spat between its founder Bhavish Aggarwal, and standup comedian Kunal Kamra over the quality of service. Last week, HSBC Global Research maintained a ‘buy’ rating for Ola Electric shares, with a target price of Rs 110 apiece. The global research firm revisited Ola Electric’s service centres a month after an earlier inspection in September and noted substantial improvements in service centres.

  • BSNL deploys 50,000 4G sites in India’s remote regions; Strengthens network

    Logo of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL)

    REUTERS/Rupak De Chowdhuri

    Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), the state-run telecom operator, has successfully installed over 50,000 indigenous 4G sites across the nation. This announcement was made by the Ministry of Communications, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s journey towards enhanced digital infrastructure. The Ministry further elaborated that out of the 50,000 sites installed until October 29, more than 41,000 are now fully operational. This achievement is a testament to the swift pace of expansion that BSNL has been maintaining in its operations.

    The telecom operator’s goal is to deploy over 1,00,000 4G sites, and the current progress indicates a promising trajectory towards this target. The installation of these 4G sites was carried out under two major projects. Nearly 36,747 sites were established under Phase IX.2 of the project, while 5,000 sites were set up under the 4G Saturation Project. The latter was funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi Fund, formerly known as the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF). This initiative is a part of the government’s Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative, which aims to promote self-reliance and indigenous innovation.

    BSNL new plans, bsnl unlimited plans,

    BSNL

    In line with this initiative, a Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)-led consortium was awarded a contract worth Rs 24,500 crore in May 2023. The contract was for providing 4G equipment for 100,000 new telecom towers. The consortium also includes Tejas Networks, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), and ITI. These companies, along with TCS, are showcasing the strength of India’s homegrown technology in fulfilling the country’s connectivity needs.

    BSNL’s 4G network is a shining example of Poorn Swadeshi or completely indigenous innovation. It has been designed, developed, and implemented entirely by Indian companies, marking a new era for the telecom sector in India. Earlier this month, Jyotiraditya Scindia, the telecom minister, stated that BSNL is expected to roll out its 4G network nationwide by June 2025. This will be achieved by deploying 1 lakh sites. He also noted that the telecom operator will convert these sites to 5G within a month of the 4G rollout.

    In addition to its 4G network, BSNL has also completed trials for its 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) and core network across 3.6 GHz and 700 MHz frequency bands. According to the Ministry, BSNL has put on 15,000 air sites till July. This is not the first time that BSNL has made significant strides in enhancing India’s digital connectivity. In the past, the telecom operator has been instrumental in bringing about a digital revolution in the country. Its efforts have been particularly noteworthy in remote and rural areas, where connectivity was previously a challenge.

  • EIB Global to provide loan worth 300 million euros for Bengaluru suburban railway network

    EIB Global announces 300 million euro loan for Bengaluru suburban railway network

    EIB Global announces 300 million euro loan for Bengaluru suburban railway networkIANS

    EIB Global, the arm of the European Investment Bank (EIB) for financing activities outside the European Union (EU), on Friday, announced it would provide a 300 million euro loan to build a new suburban railway network covering four dedicated rail corridors in Bengaluru.

    The network will stretch over a total of 149 km and include 58 stations and two depots.

    At a meeting here, EIB Vice-President Nicola Beer and Karnataka Rail Infrastructure Development Company Ltd’s (KRIDE) Director of Finance Awadhesh Mehta, formally announced the loan towards Bengaluru suburban railway network will help cut pollution and carbon emissions and improve safety for women passengers.

    “This funding complements the 500 million euros we allocated for the construction of the Bengaluru Metro R6 line, addressing Bengaluru’s mobility challenges by developing a clean, modern and efficient public transport system,” said Beer.

    “The two projects we are financing in Bengaluru aim to create India’s most integrated rail network, providing seamless connectivity with all other modes of public transport in the city,” Beer said in a statement.

    The earlier 500 million euro loan was given to build the 23 km Bengaluru Metro R6 line and purchase a fleet of about 96 metro cars. The EIB has so far financed metro projects in Agra, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Kanpur, Lucknow, and Pune, with a total of 3.25 billion euros committed since 2016 – making India the largest beneficiary of its transport financing outside Europe.

    Ambassador, Delegation of European Union to India @EU_in_India

    Ambassador, Delegation of European Union to IndiaHervé Delphin @EUAmbIndia

    EU Ambassador to India and Bhutan, Herve Delphin, said it marks a major milestone in our collaboration as “we unlock new opportunities for growth, connectivity and positive social, economic and environmental impact, further strengthening the partnership between India and the EU”.

    Once fully operational, the Bengaluru transport system will see a 43 per cent drop in CO2 emissions. The estimated daily ridership will be approximately 400,000 trips per day in 2029, the first year of full operation, and is expected to increase to about 1.4 million trips per day in 2040, largely aligned with the projected population growth.

    (With inputs from IAN)

     

  • How Network Slicing Tech Shaping Our Future

    Network slicing is the key feature and enabler of 5G networks and this unlocks the full potential of 5G. It logically partitions the network into multiple virtual networks across a single infrastructure, with dedicated resources for each virtual network, to meet the QOS requirements. Network slicing creates ‘Network of Networks’. This technique offers flexibility and efficiency. Using Network slicing, networks can be customised to meet the specific requirements of industries, businesses and customers. It is a strategic tool to enhance service delivery and it drives innovation. The use cases of 5G are Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Massive Machine Type Communications (mMTC) and Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communications (uRLCC). Each type of service requires a different set of parameters like automated vehicles need low latency, high user throughput application requires high speed broadband, robotic surgery requires ultra reliability and low latency.

    These types of services can be served via slicing. Each slice can have a different set of characteristics and different parameters. Using Network slicing, the physical network is divided into logical networks and each slice is isolated with one another and is secure. Each slice operates independently and is tailored to meet the specific needs of diverse applications and services. If something goes wrong with one slice, it will not affect the other slice. The isolation and independence of slices allows us to add new slices without impacting the rest of the network. We can have different sets of parameters, different sets of configuration to each slice. Network slicing obviates the need for dedicated networks for meeting different requirements.

    Slicing standardisation

    3GPP release 15 in 2018 is the 1st specification for network slicing. In this specification, slicing framework in 5G architecture, RAN signalling procedures and resource availability for respective slices are dealt with. Release 16 in the year 2020 contains further specifications, considering the continuity between different technologies. 3GPP shared some standard slices for various services like eMBB, mMTC, uRLLC, IOT, V2X. However Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) can define the characteristics of slices as per their requirements and can provide the services as per the need of use case.

    Device echo system in network slicing

    In 2021, the 5G capable devices were hardly 3 to 4 per cent. In subsequent years, 5G capable devices are increasing year by year. It is projected that by 2026, 5G capable devices will be in the 45-50 per cent range. These devices can get the benefit of slicing. 5G capable devices can connect to one or multiple slices. Multisplice capability is supported for the different OS with different 3GPP releases. For Android, release 13 is compatible and for IOS, release 17. Multi slice capability is supported by advanced FWA CPEs. Slicing supports continuity between 5G, fixed wireless access/Wi-Fi

    End to End (E2E) Network Slicing Architecture

    The entire network architecture will be divided among slices. Let us say that four slices are created; one for internet, one for enterprise, one for FWA and one for gaming service. If we consider enterprise slice, this slice is created as per the requirement, say high throughput and low latency. Similarly, other slices. These slices are created on the respective cell site and in the domains.

    Once a slice is created, resources will be partitioned to the slice across all domains i.e. radio domain, transport domain and the core. In the radio domain, the scheduler does the resource allocation to the slices. In addition to partition of resources, Quality of Service will be applied in the radio domain based on the requirement of enterprise slice.

    Traffic from the enterprise slice will go to the enterprise slice only. In the transport domain, resource partitioning to the four slices will be done based on MPLS etc. If the enterprise organisation wants to keep their data separate, then a dedicated core can be deployed in their premises.

    Further to this, the traffic will move to their private MPLS and their applications server. All the slices are secured, as much as wireless networks are secure. On all domains, the management function will sit on top. The job of the management function is to create the new slice and modify the slice as per the requirements. When there is a need for a higher number of slices or a higher number of sites, then the automation comes into the picture. Via automation, slices can be created automatically by instruction coming from the orchestrator. This end to end orchestrator is the driving body for creating the slices, managing the slices and giving instruction to each domain.

    How many slices are possible? On the SA network, theoretically there is no limit on the number of slices but the challenge is how many slices can be managed. Practically 10-15 slices can be there on a public network and an even higher number of slices on a private network. As per the URSP (User equipment Route Selection Policy), present User Equipment (UE) can latch to 8 slices simultaneously. Eight different profiles can be there and depending on the SLA for that particular application, a particular slice will be assigned.

    Slice management architecture

    The End to End orchestrator carries out the Communication Services Management Function (CSMF) and Network Slice Management Function (NSMF). CSMF is responsible for translating the communication service related equipment to the network related equipment and further that communication will be sent to NSMF. NSMF will further communicate with Network Slice Subnet Management Function (NSSMF).

    The job of NSMF is to orchestrate managed networks slice subnet, deriving slice network subnet requirements and further it coordinates with Network Function Management Function (NFMF). NFMF sits on RAN, Transport and Core. These respective management functions will execute the definition of slice at their respective end and acknowledge back to the upper hierarchy of NSMF and CSMF.

    5G network slicing use cases

    As per survey, the priority use cases for 5G network slicing are in the following order:

    1. Service based (IOT, connected cars, smart home, fixed wireless)

    2. Vertical industry based (health, agriculture, manufacturing)

    3. Organisation based (Universities, large enterprises)

    4. Event based (sporting events, festivals).

    The most commercially attractive network slice services are: private network extension into wide area network (example SBI desiring to have a pan India private network working with JIO and asking for a slice), security enterprise VPNs, Fixed Wireless Access, public safety, events, gaming, OTT video.

    Some of the successful demonstrations of network slicing

    1. Vodafone UK and Ericsson demonstrated VR oriented slicing for a retailer, offering guaranteed bandwidth and latency (260 Mbps, 12.4 ms)

    2. Deutsche Telekom and Ericsson demonstrated cross border continuity of enterprise network slicing (in Germany and Poland)

    3. Live coverage of the king’s coronation in the UK using slicing on Vodafone UK’s public 5G network.

    4. Jio,Tella, Etilsatv have launched FWA service on priority slice to give better user experience.

    5. Verizon is doing public safety use cases by enabling slice in its 5G SA network.

    Some of the use cases which can be targeted initially are video production/ media houses, cloud gaming, AR/ VR, private networks and FWA. The TSPs have commercially launched these use cases in their networks and are monetising them.

    The top choices of verticals for network slicing are Transport automotive/logistics, Health care, Manufacturing, Smart cities, Energy and utilities, Media and Entertainment.

    Innovations in 5G slicing

    In case of 5G SA network slicing, the network slicing capabilities are enhanced (compared to NSA network) and it happens on NSSAI (Network Slice Selection Assistant Information) and based upon this information, the slices are done end to end. In the coming future, there will be intent based slicing or dynamic slicing which will help operators to take decisions on the fly and bring in more efficiencies in the utilisation of network resources by a lot of automation orchestration.

    Another new concept is L4S (Low Latency Low Loss Scalable throughput) which is one level next to network slicing. For the applications which require latency less than one millisecond, latency has to be prioritised. Network with L4S functionality does this. This feature will be important for URLLC use cases.

    Way forward

    The need for slicing is for Service differentiation, creating new business segments and for generating new revenue streams. The benefits of E2E Network slicing for enterprise customers are improved experience, tailored and flexible services, improved security and faster service delivery. The benefits for TSPs are unlocking new revenue streams, faster delivery of services, maximising the utilisation and monetisation of network resources and enabling new business models.

    For 5G implementation there are two architectures NSA (Non Stand Alone) and SA (Stand Alone). In NSA architecture, the control signalling of 5G Radio Network is connected to 4G core network while in SA architecture, 5G Radio is connected directly to the 5G core network. E2E Network splicing is possible only in SA architecture. In our country only Reliance Jio is implementing 5G with SA architecture in public networks. BSNL after implementing 4G will upgrade it to 5G SA.

    The challenges in implementation of network slicing are Significant behind the scene IT support, Slice friendly or slice aware UE requirement and on-demand slice allocation.

    DOT and TRAI are of the view that network slicing will not violate the principle of net neutrality. Appropriate changes will be made in licensing rules, when network traffic gains pace, to allow slicing in the 5G networks. DOT feels that the TSPs are not going to throttle speeds for consumers when they slice the network. So network neutrality doctrine will not come in the way in the growth of network slicing use cases.

    According to recent spectrum leasing rules, DOT has allowed TSPs to offer captive private networks, as a service to enterprises, through network slicing over public networks. TSPs expect around 40 per cent of 5G revenue to come from captive private networks in the days to come.

    Up to 30 per cent of 5G use cases are expected to require network slicing in future. Network slicing will push the telecommunication industry to new heights. From fibre splicing to network slicing, telecom technology has made rapid strides!

    (The author is a former Advisor, Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India)

  • Indo-Danish Plastic Innovation Network Hosts Round-Table on Sustainability; Launches Green Fellowship by M3M Foundation

    New Delhi, 18 October, 2024: The Indo-Danish Plastic Innovation Network hosted a landmark round-table at The Oberoi focused on driving sustainability and innovation in plastic waste management. As a significant stride towards building a more sustainable future, the Green Fellowship Program under Mashaal by M3M Foundation was officially launched, which will provide financial grants to select start-ups, incubators, and entrepreneurs dedicated to technological advancements in various sectors related to climate change and environmental protection. This is a joint initiative by DRIIV and M3M Foundation aimed at supporting technological innovations in climate change mitigation, environmental conservation, and sustainable practices.

    DRIIV, the umbrella body of the Delhi Science and Technology (S&T) cluster under the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, has been tasked with becoming a local and national solution provider for pressing environmental and societal challenges by aligning innovations with purpose.

    With India currently producing around 3.4 million tons of plastic waste each year—of which less than 50% is recycled—this initiative stands as a crucial step towards developing impactful solutions to address the country’s growing waste management challenges. The gathering brought together key policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and stakeholders from India and Denmark to explore collaborative strategies for advancing the circular economy.

    Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson & Trustee, M3M Foundation expressed firmly on the occasion “Sustainability is not just an option; it’s our responsibility. With the Green Fellowship Program under Mashaal, we’re championing innovative solutions to reshape our relationship with plastic.”

    The event’s highlight session titled “Mobilizing Corporate Support into Sustainability” was chaired by Ms. Shipra Misra, MD & CEO of DRIIV. Ms. Misra emphasized & evoked the need for businesses to integrate sustainability into their core strategies, not just as a responsibility but as an opportunity for innovation and growth. It was a call to action for companies to take a proactive role in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future.

    This session explored the scope for industry players to engage in open innovation challenges and collaborative R&D projects focused on creating eco-friendly materials and improving recycling efficiency. By bringing together key players from the plastic value chain, the session inspired co-creation of commercially viable solutions that not only minimize plastic waste but also promote sustainable production practices. The Mashaal’s Green Fellowship will focus on a range of critical areas, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, development of energy storage solutions, sustainable mobility, waste-to-energy technologies, air pollution mitigation, water security, and healthcare innovations. By supporting initiatives that address these key environmental challenges, the fellowship aims to foster a new generation of solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future. With the combined strengths of India and Denmark in research, technology, and commercialization, this event represents a significant step towards creating a circular and sustainable plastic economy, ultimately benefiting both countries and the global community.


    Mansi Praharaj