VIRTUAL NETWORK OPERATORS – ENABLER FOR DIGITAL REVOLUTION IN RURAL INDIA

Abstract

Several studies have been conducted in the field of virtual network operators, business models that can be applied, types of business models for these operators. This research paper examines the emergence of virtual network operators in the telecommunication business and how it can be used as an enabler for providing digital connectivity to the rural parts of India. Due to various government initiatives like Digital India, Rural Internet mission, and 100 smart city projects, the need for digital connectivity has become mandatory. With the present telecom operators already facing challenges to build a viable business model due to the high spectrum prices, infrastructure cost, fiber rollout cost that makes it difficult for the operators to provide connectivity to the rural parts of the country. Various examples of MVNO companies are taken into consideration to get a better understanding of how this market can be used as an enabler.