Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and the CSIR–National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish a collaborative framework for joint research and innovation. The primary objective of the agreement is to establish a long-term collaborative framework to support research, development, standardisation, and delivery of next-generation communication technologies. C-DOT brings deep expertise in network protocols, internet of things (IoT), software applications, and quantum communications, while CSIR-NPL contributes unmatched capabilities in scientific measurement, standardisation, and traceability to SI units, creating a powerful synergy.
Collaborative research support is a cornerstone of this partnership, with both organisations agreeing to extend access to their research facilities, technical expertise, and administrative support for the successful execution of joint initiatives. They also intend to pursue additional grant funding and other resources to advance shared goals.
In addition to joint research and development (R&D), the MoU promotes academic exchange and knowledge sharing through guest lectures, workshops, seminars, and collaborative teaching initiatives. Faculty, researchers, and students from both organisations will have opportunities to engage in cross-institutional learning and skill development. Furthermore, a strong emphasis is placed on intellectual property and data sharing, with a commitment to develop a joint framework defining ownership, usage rights, and publication guidelines to ensure equitable and transparent management of outcomes arising from the collaboration.
Commenting on the development, Dr Rajkumar Upadhyay, chief executive officer (CEO), C-DOT, said, “Quantum communication represents the next frontier in safeguarding data and ensuring the integrity of critical information infrastructure. This partnership with CSIR-NPL is not just a strategic alignment of capabilities, but a commitment to national priorities of self-reliance and technological sovereignty. Through this collaboration, we aim to harness the complementary strengths of both institutions to accelerate the development of indigenous solutions that are globally competitive and future-ready.”
Meanwhile, Professor Venugopal Achanta, director, CSIR-NPL, conveyed his appreciation for the collaboration with C-DOT, stating that the partnership holds significant promise in elevating India’s global standing in the field of quantum secure communication technologies. Echoing on the statement of Dr Upadhyay, he stressed on the need for joint activities to strengthen the quality infrastructure in the country. This will boost the Government’s initiatives like “Make India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat”.
This partnership stands as a testament to the nation’s growing emphasis on self-reliance in high-tech research and development. By combining C-DOT’s telecom innovation with CSIR-NPL’s foundational scientific leadership, this MoU paves the way for India to become a global leader in secure, scalable, and standardised communication technologies for the future.
