Roll out of 5G will most likely begin in the middle of next year for areas and industries that need it, said Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo.

The Minister added the roll out would not be state-centred but instead focused on priority areas. “A pilot project was started in May, the preliminary report has been submitted to us. Now we are waiting for the full report after which I will bring it to the Cabinet.

A national policy for the launch of 5G is being drafted which most likely will be in the middle of next year. Meanwhile, Gobind said the government’s effort through the implementation of the National Fiberisation and Connectivity Plan (NFCP) was like building a digital highway that brought development and economic prosperity to the rural people. The objective of NFCP, is for those living in rural and remote areas to obtain digital infrastructure like in the urban areas which would allow them to enjoy mutual prosperity through the digital economy.

“The NFCP provides an extensive sustainable connection and is affordable for the well-being of the people and the prosperity of the nation. This is in line with the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030 launched by the government for the people,” he said.

Rapid development of the Internet has led it to become as important as the other basic facilities such as water and electricity and even these need the Internet to be managed. It is imperative every citizen to have access to the Internet, in order for this to take effect costs for Internet access should be lowered and the quality improved.

According to World Bank reports, in the first six months of the this year, the recent reduction in prices for Internet packages saw a 21 per cent increase in the demand for fixed-line broadband Internet. Everybody’s life will change when using the Internet, there should be no gap between people who have access and without access to the Internet. The Internet is not only a basic facility but it empowers all consumers in terms of knowledge.