The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has officially approved the 6G Vision Framework, with the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, representing India playing a pivotal role in its formulation. Under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister of India, India released its own 6G Vision document, known as “Bharat 6G Vision,” emphasizing affordability, sustainability, and ubiquity. This milestone achievement sets the stage for India’s active participation in the development of 6G technology and its global impact.
India’s Contribution to the 6G Vision Framework:
- Bharat 6G Vision: On March 23, 2023, India released its Bharat 6G Vision document, laying out its vision for the future of telecommunications. Built upon the principles of affordability, sustainability, and ubiquity, this framework positions India as a leading supplier of advanced telecom technologies while contributing to the global good.
- ITU Approval: The ITU, as the specialized agency for Information and Communication Technologies of the United Nations, has officially approved the 6G Vision Framework. Named ‘IMT 2030,’ this framework will serve as a foundational document for 6G research and development worldwide.
India’s Standardization Efforts:
- Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC): The Telecommunication Engineering Centre, as the technical arm of the Ministry of Communications, has played a pivotal role in India’s standardization efforts for 6G technology. Spearheaded by TEC, the country’s work on the 6G Framework has been led by the National Study Group (NSG).
- Contributions of the NSG: The NSG, composed of major industries, startups, academia, and research and development organizations, has made substantial contributions to the development of the ITU 6G framework. Their collaborative efforts have been instrumental in shaping India’s stance in the global 6G landscape.
Potential Advantages of the 6G Rollout:
- Hyperconnectivity and Enhanced Experiences: With the rollout of 6G technology, hyperconnectivity is anticipated to revolutionize user experiences across all industries. Users will have seamless access to data, resources, and social services irrespective of time and location.
- Quantum Technologies: Researchers are exploring the integration of quantum technologies into the 6G rollout, which could provide unprecedented performance in areas such as quantum sensing, communication, security, and computing. These advancements will pave the way for highly advanced services.
- Non-Terrestrial Networks: The integration of non-terrestrial wireless networks with terrestrial networks will offer ubiquity coverage, including areas that are currently underserved by the terrestrial network in India. This expansion will bridge the digital divide and improve the lives of individuals in rural communities.
- Innovation and Cooperation for Successful Implementation: The successful implementation of 6G technology requires collaboration and cooperation among all stakeholders. Government bodies, businesses, telecom providers, academia, and research institutions must work together to drive innovation, develop robust infrastructure, and foster an ecosystem conducive to the adoption of 6G technology. This collective effort will ensure that India remains at the forefront of connectivity advancements while contributing to global technological progress.