India has emerged as a formidable contender in the global 6G race, ranking among the top six nations in 6G patent filings. This impressive feat is a result of the government’s proactive approach under the Bharat 6G Vision, which aims to make India a front-runner in the design, development, and deployment of 6G technologies by 2030. The vision is being spearheaded by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in collaboration with industry players and research institutions.
India’s advancements in the 6G space reflect its growing influence in the global telecommunications landscape. By 2024, the country had already filed over 100 patents related to 6G technologies, placing it in the league of nations like the United States, China, and South Korea. This rise to prominence has been driven by a robust innovation ecosystem that includes startups, academic institutions, and telecom giants.
Government Initiatives and Support
The Indian government has laid out an ambitious roadmap for 6G development, which includes securing over 127 key patents by the end of the decade. The Bharat 6G Mission has been structured in two phases: Phase 1 (2023-2025) focuses on foundational research and ecosystem building, while Phase 2 (2025-2030) aims at scaling technologies and commercial deployment. The mission is supported by substantial investments and initiatives to bolster research and development efforts across the nation.
As part of this mission, the government has also launched a series of schemes aimed at startups and small enterprises working in the 6G space. The Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) provides financial support, with up to ₹50 lakh offered to eligible startups for R&D and innovation in 6G technologies.
Indian Telecom Industry’s Role
Indian telecom companies are playing a pivotal role in this technological push, with a target of contributing to 10% of all global 6G patents within the next three years. Leading players have aligned their research efforts with national goals, ensuring that India is not just a consumer but also a key supplier of telecom products and innovations.
Furthermore, India has set its sights on capturing one-sixth of the global contributions to 6G standards. These efforts are bolstered by the active participation of leading academic institutions like IIT Hyderabad, which are working on critical 6G technologies, including advanced wireless systems and artificial intelligence integration.
Global Recognition and Future Prospects
India’s efforts in the 6G domain have garnered international attention, with the country hosting the prestigious World Telecommunications Standardisation Assembly (WTSA) in New Delhi, where delegates from 190 countries will gather to discuss the future of global telecom standards. This platform will further solidify India’s position as a key player in shaping the 6G landscape.
With the rapid rollout of 5G and now the focus on 6G, India is well on its way to becoming a global leader in next-generation communications technology. As the world looks towards 6G to revolutionize industries such as healthcare, smart cities, and autonomous vehicles, India’s contributions will likely be crucial in defining this transformative technology.
Conclusion
India’s ascent in the 6G race marks a significant milestone in the nation’s technological and industrial growth. As it continues to secure key patents and drive innovation, India is set to play a central role in the future of global telecommunications, further enhancing its position in the international tech arena.
