India prepares for 6G technology while expanding 5G across its cities. The central government has launched a time-bound program to develop 6G domestically, aiming for its rollout by the end of this decade. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a key role in this next-generation technology.

By Sanjeev Oak

While 5G mobile networks are still in the process of expanding across India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration has laid out an ambitious blueprint to develop 6G technology within the country. India is among the select few nations, such as South Korea and China, actively working to pioneer this advanced communication infrastructure.

Prime Minister Modi recently held discussions with executives from Cisco, including Chairman Chuck Robbins and CEO Maria Martinez, regarding India’s vision for 6G technology. Cisco has committed to investments in India, including a new manufacturing plant with a production target of $1 billion. Martinez expressed enthusiasm, stating that Cisco is excited to work with India to develop this revolutionary technology and provide new opportunities for startups. The Indian government has also launched a time-bound roadmap for the development of 6G, which is expected to be available by the end of this decade.

The Global Race for 6G

While no country currently has functional 6G technology, the race is heating up. South Korea aims to roll out 6G by 2028, investing approximately $482 million, while China plans its first 6G trial by 2025. South Korea, which accounted for 25.9% of global 5G patents last year, hopes to expand its stake to 30% in the 6G era. Meanwhile, the European Union is also working on 6G through collaborative efforts from industry leaders like Nokia, Ericsson, and Orange.

In this East vs. West technological rivalry, India’s entry into the global 6G race is significant. Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently emphasized the importance of connectivity in driving national progress, stating that India aims to launch 6G services by the decade’s end.

India’s Digital Momentum

India’s focus on self-reliance in digital technology aligns with its rapid digital transformation. Experts praise the country’s impressive pace of digitization and highlight the need to develop indigenous infrastructure for future communication needs. The government is actively working to ensure secure, high-quality connectivity while addressing cybersecurity challenges.

What Will 6G Bring?

6G is expected to deliver ultra-fast speeds, with potential download rates of 10 Gbps and upload speeds of 5 Gbps or higher. Beyond speed, 6G will integrate advanced AI-driven systems to provide seamless and secure connectivity. Users will experience a blend of virtual and physical realities, with AI enhancing various applications, from environmental sustainability to personal convenience. However, achieving these advancements will require innovations in spectrum efficiency, uninterrupted connectivity, and next-generation devices.

Unlike current mobile handsets, 6G-compatible devices will feature entirely new technology, revolutionizing daily life. Experts predict that 6G will play a vital role in national security, providing high-efficiency, AI-powered solutions for critical infrastructure.

India’s Road Ahead

India’s success in developing 5G technology has laid the groundwork for its 6G ambitions. The government’s proactive initiatives, coupled with partnerships with global technology giants like Cisco, highlight India’s readiness to lead in next-generation connectivity. By prioritizing indigenous development, India is poised to become a global hub for advanced telecom technology while reducing dependency on foreign systems.

As researchers worldwide explore 6G possibilities in labs, India’s strategic roadmap positions the nation as a future leader in the digital era. With AI integration and cutting-edge innovation, 6G promises to take users beyond the capabilities of 5G, delivering faster, more reliable, and environmentally friendly connectivity.