India Aims for 6G Leadership as Telecom Sector Expands
In a significant address to telecom industry stakeholders, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, the Union Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, highlighted the remarkable progress India has made in the telecom sector over the last five years. As the country gears up for future advancements, the Minister emphasized priorities that will shape the next decade of connectivity.
Speaking at the “Shaping the Intelligent Infrastructure for 6G” session during IMC 2026, Dr. Pemmasani proudly noted that India has successfully connected over a billion people and introduced 5G connectivity to every district through nearly 560,000 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS). He also reaffirmed India’s commitment to rural connectivity, underscoring projects like BharatNet and the widespread rollout of 4G to villages across the nation.
Regulatory Framework and R&D Initiatives
Dr. Pemmasani detailed how most rules under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, have been implemented to provide a more efficient and technology-neutral regulatory framework. As part of this modernization effort, he revealed that about 136 research and development projects, with a total funding of ₹500 crore, are currently being spearheaded through the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF). These projects focus on cutting-edge technologies, including 5G and 6G, quantum communications, and advanced optical systems.
Future Technology Goals
Looking forward, the Minister called for a concentrated effort to identify and develop Indian alternatives to critical network technologies currently sourced from abroad. He specifically mentioned the need for domestic manufacturing of components like chipsets, routers, and optical systems as essential for national growth.
With a vision for India to take the lead in 6G technology, Dr. Pemmasani set ambitious targets, including securing at least 10% of global 6G patents and standards. He urged major telecom operators to establish clear quarterly and annual objectives for their contributions to research and standards, while also fostering collaboration with universities and other industry players.
Quantum Communications and National Security
The Minister placed significant emphasis on the future of quantum communications, encouraging the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) to initiate operator trials for technologies like quantum-safe encryption and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). He stressed the importance of moving from AI-assisted to AI-native networks, addressing crucial aspects such as equipment and supply-chain security, and the prevention of telecom fraud.
Collaborative Future
Dr. Pemmasani concluded his address by stressing the need for close cooperation between the government, telecom operators, equipment manufacturers, and technology firms. He encouraged industry stakeholders to express their needs and suggestions for regulatory changes to keep pace with technological advancements.
“The last decade was Digital India. Our goal is to make the next decade an Intelligent India,” articulated Dr. Pemmasani, marking a clear intention for the future of India’s telecommunications landscape.
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