"INTEROPERABILITY BETWEEN LEGACY AND MODERN SYSTEMS IS A CONCERN❞

What primary infrastructure challenges hinder the growth of critical communication in India?

- SUJIT CHAUDHARI

India's critical communication infrastructure faces several challenges that hinder its growth, especially in sectors requiring high reliability and security. One of the primary challenges is the lack of robust and scalable network infrastructure, particularly in remote and rural areas. This gap limits seamless connectivity, essential for critical communication systems in public safety, power infrastructure, healthcare, and disaster management.

Additionally, spectrum allocation remains a significant hurdle. Geographic challenges such as difficult terrain and remote locations further complicate infrastructure development. The absence of dedicated and affordable spectrum bands for mission-critical communication leads to network congestion and reduced reliability. This is further compounded by regulatory complexities that slow down technology deployment and innovation.

Interoperability between legacy systems and modern communication technologies is another concern. Many organisations still rely on outdated infrastructure, making integration with advanced solutions like LTE, 5G, and private networks complex and costly.

Finally, cybersecurity concerns are becoming increasingly critical. As communication systems become more digital and connected, they are more vulnerable to cyber threats. The lack of standardised security frameworks adds to the risk, making it difficult for vendors to ensure end-to-end secure solutions.

Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts between government bodies, telecom operators, and technology vendors to build a resilient and future-ready communication ecosystem in India.

How can emerging technologies like 5G, AI, IoT, and satellite communication enhance critical communication systems?