The push for 6G leadership and nationwide broadband by Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia is a significant step towards shaping India’s telecommunication ecosystem. The recently established Stakeholders Advisory Committee (SAC) on Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) aims to involve all key players in the industry to promote inclusive and collaborative policy-making. In the second meeting chaired by Minister Scindia and Minister of State for Communications Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, discussions revolved around crucial areas such as international standards, India’s role in Intellectual Property and Standard Essential Patent (SEP), connectivity gaps, and the quality of telecom services.
One of the key points emphasized by SAC members was the importance of aligning research with India’s specific needs and establishing a dynamic standards community. Initiatives like the Bharat6G Vision and Bharat6G Alliance, supported patent and IPR frameworks, and commissioned testbeds have positioned India to aim for 10% of global 6G patents and make a significant contribution to international standards. The SAC proposed a three-year roadmap to achieve these ambitious goals, highlighting the need to enhance both wireline and intelligent wireless broadband networks to ensure reliable connectivity nationwide.
Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) called for a supportive policy environment to encourage investments towards achieving 100% broadband coverage across the country. Discussions also focused on various factors affecting telecom service quality and potential improvement measures that could be implemented. Minister Scindia urged SAC members to outline a critical path to achieve the discussed targets, defining the roles of various stakeholders, including the government. He also encouraged TSPs to take all necessary steps to ensure high-quality telecom services for citizens.
Minister Scindia has established six distinct Stakeholders Advisory Committees (SACs) to provide valuable insights to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on various issues related to the telecommunication sector. These committees are designed to facilitate ongoing dialogue between the government and industry leaders, top CEOs, academicians, researchers, entrepreneurs, and start-ups, ensuring a continuous exchange of ideas and strategies to advance the sector.
Overall, the push for 6G leadership and nationwide broadband by Minister Scindia and the SAC on TSPs signifies a proactive approach towards shaping India’s telecommunication landscape. By involving all stakeholders and focusing on key areas of improvement, India is poised to emerge as a deep tech leader in the global telecommunication arena. The collaborative efforts of the government, industry leaders, and other key players will play a crucial role in achieving the ambitious goals set forth in the meetings chaired by Minister Scindia.