As per a new agreement, Nokia will become BSNL’s Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) technology partner for public safety projects
Finland-based telecom equipment maker Nokia and public sector telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) will be working together to explore opportunities in the public safety arena in India.
As per a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the companies on Tuesday, Nokia will become BSNL’s Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) technology partner for public safety projects.
Their joint effort will assist in advancing public safety standards in the country and supports the government’s Smart Cities Mission.
Anupam Srivastava, Chairman and Managing Director at BSNL, said that the partnership with Nokia will strengthen their commitment to providing the best technology solutions for public safety professionals.
During disaster situations,a reliable and robust LTE public safety system is critical as it can aid public safety workers in relief and rescue efforts, Nokia in a statement said.
Nokia and BSNL partnership will explore solutions that help first responders to more swiftly locate people and assist affected communities, by leveraging the Nokia ViTrust critical communications portfolio, in particular, the Nokia Ultra Compact Network.
The Nokia Ultra Compact Network (UCN) is a portable solution that allows first responders to set up a reliable mission-critical mobile broadband network in minutes.
By establishing a LTE network, the first responders can securely transmit large images and videos in real-time to other workers and command centres, providing vital insight into a situation to aid public safety and rescue efforts.
J.P. Singh, head of Nokia’s customer team for government business in India, pointed that their public safety solution will be used in India for the first time.
Nokia and BSNL will also explore public safety opportunities for various industry segments including Smart City deployment, border-related activities and mines and quarries in remote areas with limited connectivity.
In addition, they will establish a mission-critical government network, allowing ministers and other officials to communicate securely across the country. The companies will also work with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to help them leverage the benefits of LTE technology in public safety communications systems.