China’s strategically planned 5G game

What is the issue?

• 5G technology is set to bring unimaginable benefits to mankind.
• And China is taking its 5G technological advancement into other countries to digitally encircle the world.

What are China’s plans of 5G technology in Nepal & outcomes of it?

• China and Nepal recently agreed to increase the height of Mount Everest by three metres.
• Infrastructure development by China in mountaineering sites will make Nepal’s borders vulnerable & keeps it under China’s control.
• Nepal’s tourism industry might get attracted to Chinese cheap loans leading to a strategic debt trap.
• Chinese 5G technological inroads in Nepal could affect Nepal’s business interests.
• Nepal has to depend on Chinese 5G for Real-time information on weather, routes, map/terrain details, logistics and rescue programmes, etc.

What are the other Chinese Investments across the world?

• Chinese companies have made huge investments across the world to spread a 5G network.
• They aim to encircle the planet digitally through technology.

• Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) will aid this aim & China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a clear example of how easily a country can be encircled.
• Pakistan is today a virtual vassal state of China.
• During pandemic, many countries who do not have indigenous 5G military capabilities had to depend on China.
• These countries later became hostage to Chinese technology.

Why is 5G technology needed now?

• The novel corona virus has pushed people and businesses to work from home & internet helped to connect them.
• This year has seen unprecedented intensification of global military conflicts since the Gulf War & many Nations showed their military intent.
•  AI applications have been at display at warfare, with drone killing machines are advertised.
• There is no option left but to get the 5G technology now.

What are India’s Plans in 5G technology?

• India is working on technologies that would enable to launch its Indigenous 5G.
• This will help running its IOT platforms on indigenous technology for civilian as well as military applications.
• PM is pushing for Aatamnirbharta (self-reliance), with the success of Digital India being a priority.
• India banned Chinese apps & blocked its hardware supply chains to protect India’s business and security interests.
• Scientists and Industries should work together to bring 5G technology quicker rather than getting entangled in policy processes & bureaucratic rift.

• The implementation of 5G technology can make India a good alternative to China.

Source: The Hindu