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India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has announced two significant calls for proposals aimed at catalysing innovation and technological advancement in the telecommunications sector.
These initiatives, under the categories of ‘5G Intelligent Village’ and ‘Quantum Encryption Algorithm,’ are set to harness cutting-edge technology to drive digital inclusion, economic growth, and secure communication channels in India. The deadline for submissions is 31st July 2024.
In line with the ‘Jai Anusandhan’ initiative to promote innovative start-ups and establish a robust ecosystem of research and entrepreneurship, the DoT’s calls for proposals underscore its commitment to fostering indigenous R&D, promoting IP creation, and achieving inclusive digital growth across India.
These proposals invite participation from industry, MSMEs, start-ups, academia, and government departments involved in the design, development, and commercialisation of telecommunication products and solutions.
Funded under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme, these proposals represent pivotal steps towards harnessing advanced technologies for societal benefit and reinforcing India’s leadership in telecommunications innovation.
The 5G Intelligent Village Initiative addresses the pressing need for equitable technological advancement by leveraging the transformative power of 5G technology to uplift rural communities. The call for proposals, titled “From Connectivity Gaps to Smart Solutions: Designing 5G Networks for Rural Innovation – 5G Intelligent Villages,” aims to address critical pillars such as agriculture, education, healthcare, governance, and sustainability.
Proposals are invited to enable the effective utilisation of Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC) and massive Machine Type Communication (mMTC) aspects of 5G in these selected villages. They can also include plans for establishing 5G connectivity in areas without existing coverage. This initiative aims to unite telecom service providers, sensor manufacturers, CCTV suppliers, and IoT providers on a single platform to explore and exploit the potential advantages of 5G, serving as a hub for research and development in this field. More details can be found here.
The second call for proposals focuses on developing an India-specific Quantum Encryption Algorithm (QEA). This initiative represents a cutting-edge approach to securing digital communication channels by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics. The algorithm is expected to ensure unparalleled security, advanced encryption capabilities, and ultrafast and efficient encryption. More details can be found here.
The DoT is looking forward to collaborative efforts to realise the potential of 5G and quantum encryption for a digitally resilient future. These initiatives aim to promote indigenous research, design, prototyping, proof-of-concept testing, IPR creation, field testing, security certification, and manufacturing of telecommunications products.
The TTDF, set up under the Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF) of the DoT, provides the framework for these activities, fostering an ecosystem that supports the entire lifecycle of technological development in the telecommunications field.
The deadline for submitting proposals is 31 July 2024. The DoT encourages innovators across the industry, academia, and government sectors to participate in these initiatives, contributing to the technological advancement and digital resilience of India.
OpenGov Asia reported that India celebrated World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, showcasing its strides in digital empowerment and global telecom leadership. With extensive 4G coverage, robust 5G infrastructure, and strategic partnerships with global tech leaders, India continues to shape global telecom standards and innovation, cementing its pivotal role in the industry.
The DoT’s calls for proposals for the 5G Intelligent Village and Quantum Encryption Algorithm initiatives mark a significant step forward in harnessing advanced technologies to drive digital inclusion, economic growth, and secure communications in India. By fostering innovation and supporting the development and commercialisation of new technologies, these initiatives aim to build a digitally resilient future for all.
