Context:
• The Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), the technical arm of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Bombay.
• The collaboration focuses on joint studies, research, and technical contributions in advanced telecom technologies, next-generation networks, and global standardisation activities.
• Objective: Enhance India-specific standards, test frameworks, and strengthen India’s role in ITU-T and 3GPP standardisation forums, aligning with Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Key Highlights
Areas of Collaboration
- 6G Networks:
- Study 6G architecture and enabling technologies.
- Conduct research, pre-standardization studies, and contribute to global 3GPP standardization activities.
- Core Network:
- Joint studies and technical contributions for telecommunications core networks.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI):
- Development of AI-driven telecom applications for intelligent networks, automation, and predictive maintenance.
- Roadmap towards AI-Native capabilities in future 6G systems.
- Satellite Communication Systems:
- Design and develop indigenous, low-cost satellite communication terminals.
- Focus on remote sensing and rural connectivity applications.
- Signalling Requirements and Protocols:
- Joint research in NGN, VoIP, IMT-2020/2030 networks.
- Contributions to signalling-based architectures and protocol development.
Strategic Significance:
• Accelerates indigenous R&D, strengthens India-specific telecom standards, and enhances global competitiveness.
• Contributes to Atmanirbhar Bharat by developing home-grown solutions, securing critical communications infrastructure, and reducing import dependence.
• Strengthens India’s influence in global standardisation bodies such as ITU-T and 3GPP.
About TEC:
• Formulates technical standards, specifications, and conformity requirements for telecom equipment and networks in India.
• Ensures interoperability, quality, and global alignment.
• Represents India in ITU-T, ITU-R, and coordinates National Working Groups for global standardization activities.
About IIT Bombay:
• Recognized as an Institute of Eminence by the Government of India.
• Renowned for cutting-edge research in telecommunications networks, NGN, 5G/6G, AI applications, core networks, signaling protocols, and broadcasting convergence.
• Provides strong academic and research capabilities for joint development of next-generation telecom technologies.
Relevant Mains Points:
• Technology & Innovation: Development of 6G, AI-native telecom systems, satellite communication, and NGN.
• Standards & Governance: India’s participation in global standardisation (ITU, 3GPP), developing national standards.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat: Promotion of indigenous R&D, design, and manufacturing in telecom sector.
• Way Forward: Strengthen TEC-IIT collaborations, expand AI and 6G research, build India-specific telecom test frameworks, and ensure secure, self-reliant communications infrastructure.
UPSC Relevance:
• GS-3: Science and Technology, ICT infrastructure, AI and 6G in telecom, indigenous R&D.
• GS-2: Governance in technology standardisation and policy frameworks.