Orient Cables, a leading manufacturer and exporter of an extensive range of cables, has built an unparalleled reputation and acceptance in both Indian and global markets, owing to its high-quality products and innovative end-to-end connectivity solutions. This was revealed by Mr. Vipul Nagpal, Founder and Managing Director, Orient Cables India, during his exclusive interview with Wire & Cable India.
Wire & Cable India: What motivated you to enter the optic fibre segment?
Vipul Nagpal: A growing demand for high-speed internet and data transmission, coupled with increasing adoption of cloud computing, IoT, and smart technologies, along with environmental benefits such as lower energy consumption, are some of the factors which contribute to the attractiveness of the optical fibre cable segment, driving companies and innovators to explore opportunities in this field. The need for a reliable, high-capacity and secure communication network has got a big push from the government, which has introduced a slew of schemes and initiatives to increase investments in digital infrastructure.
WCI: Please tell us more about your fibre optic cables in terms of performance, the state-of-the-art technologies you use to manufacture them and the sectors where they find application.
VN: We manufacture unarmoured/armoured cables in both SM & MM for duct and underground applications, ADSS cables for aerial application, FTTH cables, simplex/duplex patch cord cables, and CATV cables for local cable operators. Generally, there are four main processes of cable manufacturing, which involve colouring, buffering, stranding and sheathing. We have the latest machines to manufacture high accuracy cables through these processes, which are also equipped with a high-functioning laboratory for testing purposes. Our cables find application in telecom, healthcare and defence sectors. The IT sector is going to be a major segment in future to use OFCs.
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WCI: What are the latest advancements in fibre optic technology? How do they benefit the users?
VN: The latest advancements in the fibre optic technology are transforming the way we communicate and access information. Researchers have achieved remarkable improvements in the fibre optic transmission speeds, enabling faster data transfer rates. This means quicker downloads, seamless video streaming, and efficient data exchange. New cable designs allow for more fibres in smaller spaces, increasing network capacity and scalability. This is crucial for meeting growing bandwidth demands. Advancements in materials and manufacturing processes have made fibre optic systems more robust and resistant to environmental factors. This ensures consistent and reliable connectivity. Fibre optic cables are difficult to tap, making them a secure choice for data transmission. This is particularly important for sensitive information and high-stakes communications. Users can look forward to faster internet speeds, improved network reliability & scalability, and enhanced security.
WCI: How important is sustainability to your operations? Elaborate some of the initiatives.
VN: Sustainability is very crucial to our operations, as the industry has a significant environmental impact. We have implemented energy-efficient manufacturing processes, LED lighting and renewable energy sources, zero-waste-to-landfill policies and water-saving measures in manufacturing processes to reduce carbon footprint, packaging waste and energy consumption, as well as ensure scrap management. We ensure responsible sourcing of raw materials such as fibre. We have obtained certifications like ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) and comply with environmental regulations. Orient promotes adoption of sustainable practices by both its employees and suppliers through a variety of initiatives. We also encourage other cable manufacturers to adopt these measures and contribute to a sustainable future.
WCI: Please discuss some of the major challenges you have been experiencing in the industry.
VN: As a leading manufacturer and exporter of an extensive range of cables, we face a variety of challenges, such as meeting the exponential growth in global bandwidth demand while maintaining quality of products and reducing production costs. While reducing production costs, we have to ensure consistent and high-quality of our products that meet stringent industry standards, regulations and certifications. Managing global supply chains, lead times and inventory levels amid fluctuating prices and supply chain disruptions for critical materials is a big task. Besides, there is intense competition from established players and new entrants, leading to price pressure and market share erosion. To stay ahead of our competitors, we keep pace with rapid technological evolution, such as transitioning to 5G, 6G and quantum computing.
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WCI: How do you view the Indian optic fibre cable market in terms of growth and product diversification? How do you see yourself in 2024-25?
VN: The Indian optic fibre cable market is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing demand for high-speed data transmission, government initiatives like Digital India, and the rollout of 5G networks. The Indian government’s investments in optical fibre cable network infrastructure, such as the BharatNet, Smart Cities Vision and Digital India are expected to fuel growth. Growing demand from IT and telecom sectors, increasing mobile devices, and adoption of FTTH (Fibre-to-the-Home) connectivity are also driving factors for the industry. Fibre optic cables are deployed in various environments, meeting diverse infrastructure needs like underground, underwater and aerial deployment. We also anticipate widespread adoption of fibre optic cables in IT, telecom, government and other sectors. Overall, the Indian optic fibre cable market presents promising growth opportunities, driven by government initiatives, rising demand, and technological advancements. As the market continues to evolve, we can expect increased adoption, innovation and expansion in the coming years.
