Catalysing India’s 6G game

Bharat 6G Alliance will enable market access for Made-in-India telecom products and position India as a global leader in the 6G space.

India has taken a remarkable stride towards technological advancement with the recent announcement of the Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA). The alliance aims to launch next-generation technology in India and establish the country as a global leader in developing 6G standards. It will bring together key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, fostering collaboration and the development of 6G in the country.

The initiative aims to position India as a global leader in the ever-evolving telecom sector and establish the country as a major supplier of telecom hardware and infrastructure equipment. Highlighting the importance of B6GA, the Union Minister of Communications and Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw said that it is a significant step towards making India a global leader in telecommunications.

He further pointed out that the country has already secured over 200 patents in the 6G space, positioning the nation to spearhead the next-generation technology. The government also plans to introduce a new wave of telecom reforms in the coming weeks.

The forthcoming 6G technology will build upon the foundation of 5G and unlock enhanced capabilities, including improved reliability, ultra-low latency, and affordable solutions. The Bharat 6G Alliance serves as a collaborative platform that brings together key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, academia, research institutions, and standards development organisations. It aims to accelerate the development and deployment of 6G technology in India.

By becoming a global supplier of IP, products, and solutions in affordable 5G and 6G, India can reduce its dependency on imports and boost export potential.

The strategic objectives

The Bharat 6G Alliance has set forth ambitious objectives to ensure India’s leadership in 6G technology. First and foremost, the alliance aims to deploy 6G technologies as a powerful force multiplier for India by 2030. By actively participating in standard development organisations, the alliance seeks to contribute to the global advancement of 6G standards. Collaboration with other 6G global alliances and global technology alliances will enable India to shape future technology-related global standards, products, operations, and services.

Central to the alliance’s mission is the promotion of an ecosystem that fosters research, design, prototyping, development, and testing of telecom products, solutions, and use cases. By creating synergies among academic institutions, domestic industries, research and development entities, and government bodies, the alliance aims to nurture a balanced growth of the technology and innovation ecosystem in India. This will involve identifying priority areas for research, engaging all stakeholders, and encouraging innovation-driven initiatives that push the boundaries of 6G technology.

Global collaboration and market access

Recognising the importance of international collaboration and knowledge exchange, the Bharat 6G Alliance seeks to forge coalitions and synergies with other 6G global alliances. Through these partnerships, the alliance aims to facilitate global cooperation and leverage expertise from around the world.

Additionally, the alliance is committed to enabling market access for Indian telecom technology products and services, positioning India as a global leader in 6G innovation. This will be achieved by promoting technology ownership, indigenous manufacturing, reducing imports, boosting export opportunities, and fostering the creation of intellectual property.

SUPPORT FOR TELECOM SECTOR REFORMS

The launch of the Bharat 6G Alliance demonstrates the Government of India’s commitment to driving technological advancements. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had previously unveiled the 6G vision document, emphasising the potential of this initiative in creating opportunities for innovators, industries, and startups. In addition to the alliance, the government plans to introduce telecom reforms aimed at creating an environment conducive to innovation, attracting investment, and fostering a thriving telecommunications ecosystem.

By actively contributing to international standardisation organisations such as 3GPP and ITU, the alliance aims to position India at the forefront of 6G innovation. This will not only bolster the country’s technological capabilities but also create a significant positive impact on various sectors. The advent of 6G technology holds the promise of revolutionising sectors such as healthcare, education, entertainment, agriculture, weather predictions, and public services.

India’s approach and focus on innovation promises to drive economic growth and social development, while establishing the country as a technology powerhouse.

India’s leadership in 6G technology will have a profound economic impact. By becoming a global supplier of IP, products, and solutions in affordable 5G and 6G, India can reduce its dependency on imports and boost export potential. Indigenous manufacturing and the creation of intellectual property will contribute to the country’s GDP growth, generate employment opportunities, and foster a culture of innovation.

The launch of the Bharat 6G Alliance marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in next-generation telecommunications. Through strategic collaborations, research and development initiatives, and proactive government support, India is well-positioned to shape the future of connectivity.

As the world prepares for the transformative potential of 6G technology, India’s proactive approach and its focus on innovation promise to drive economic growth, enhance societal development, and establish the country as a technological powerhouse in the global arena. The Bharat 6G Alliance serves as the catalyst that will propel India into a leadership role, shaping the telecommunications landscape for years to come.

shubhendup@cybermedia.co.in