Mormugao Port Authority has secured Captive Non-Public Network (CNPN) authorisation for a private 5G network, becoming India’s first major port and government autonomous body to obtain the approval. The development, announced on October 15, supports plans for connected cargo operations, surveillance and infrastructure monitoring.

The Goa-based port received the authorisation in September 2026 and has appointed a consultancy agency to prepare a Detailed Project Report. It has also sought information from equipment manufacturers and system integrators, while proof-of-concept trials are under way. The announcement places the project at the planning and trial stage rather than confirming a fully commissioned network.

Potential applications include cargo tracking, automated logistics, drone surveillance, smart sensors and real-time monitoring of infrastructure. A dedicated network could provide reliable, high-speed communications with low latency across the port premises, while giving the authority greater control over operational connectivity and data. The practical benefits will depend on equipment compatibility, software integration, staff workflows and maintenance arrangements.

Preparatory work began with a Request for Information issued on December 4, 2025. The exercise sought industry input on an end-to-end private 5G installation, including network design, integration with information and operational technology systems, application demonstrations and maintenance. The proposed network was envisaged as being owned and managed by the port authority under a capital expenditure model, with a modular architecture supporting multiple suppliers and future applications. The RFI was an information-gathering exercise and did not represent a contract award or binding commitment.

India’s CNPN framework was established through Department of Telecommunications guidelines issued on June 27, 2022. A government update in June 2025 stated that enterprises could establish private 4G or 5G networks using spectrum assigned to telecom service providers or through direct spectrum assignment, subject to the applicable framework. Mormugao’s authorisation does not yet establish the final spectrum arrangements, investment value, technology supplier or commissioning date. The next milestones are completion of the project report, assessment of trial results and decisions on procurement and deployment.