India is targeting a substantial 10% share in the Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) of (sixth-generation) 6G technology. Led by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST), collaborative efforts are underway to achieve this ambitious goal. Meenakshi Agarwal, Scientist ‘D’ at the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), emphasized the importance of robust privacy and cybersecurity regulations, along with the development of energy-efficient technologies.
Debabrata Das, Director of IIIT-Bangalore, highlighted that standards, technology, and regulations are pivotal for 6G technology. He acknowledged the shift from human-to-machine to machine-to-machine communication in 5G, emphasizing the need for meticulous attention to standards in overcoming the complexities of telecommunication advancements. Das commended India’s Bharat 6G vision and its active participation in international standards bodies like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
India’s 6G Vision, “Bharat 6G Vision,” released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2023, envisions India as a leading contributor to the design, development, and deployment of 6G technology by 2030. The Telecom Department’s efforts have aligned with the principles of ‘Ubiquitous Connectivity, Ubiquitous Intelligence, and Sustainability,’ enhancing India’s position in the global telecom arena.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has issued a framework for 6G standards and radio interface technologies. V Sridhar from IIIT Bangalore emphasized the importance of ethical considerations and a regulatory framework for 6G, especially regarding features like high-frequency communication and the Internet of Nano Things.
Bharat Bhatia, President of ITU APT Foundation of India, highlighted the significant investments required for 6G standardization. He stressed the need for substantial governmental investment to influence the global standard-making process. Ujjwal Kumar, Associate Director of CUTS International, emphasized the integration of telecommunications, cybersecurity, and digital technologies in 6G, underscoring the necessity for a comprehensive regulatory and ethical framework.
