Rajesh Kaushal, Vice President, Delta Electronics India
The anticipation surrounding 6G is reaching its proverbial “crescendo” across the dynamic $93.1 billion worth global communication technology landscape. As the successor to 5G, this next-generation technology is poised to redefine connectivity, introducing capabilities that go far beyond its predecessor.
6G: A vision for India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unveiling of the Bharat 6G Vision document represents a significant initiative, establishing a national nine-year mission for 6G from 2022 to 2031. The mission, divided into three phases with dedicated funding tranches, aims to foster coordination among stakeholders, including government bodies, industry players and academia. With a focus on fundamental and applied research for 6G technologies, the mission targets the generation of intellectual property, knowledge and skill development. It envisions pilot-scale demonstrations and validations through field trials across various use cases, actively contributing to national and international standards, starting around 2025.
Why 6G?
The features of 6G encompass intelligent network management and control, along with seamlessly integrated wireless sensing and communication capabilities. Anticipated to redefine the landscape of communication technology, 6G is expected to introduce bandwidths of 1Tbps, a monumental leap that surpasses 5G literally by a factor of 100. The potential ramifications are profound, offering the possibility to reshape human interactions, machine communications and data interactions.
Key technological pillars
Foundational technologies will largely underpin the 6G revolution. Artificial intelligence (AI) will enable intelligent network management, while holographic communications and advanced internet of things (IoT) will create a sprawling vista of interconnected devices, reshaping the way we communicate. The deployment of 6G is poised to revolutionise omnichannel experiences across all sectors by ushering in hyperconnectivity, ensuring advanced user experiences for everyone.
Benefits
The advent of 6G mobile communication technology promises hyperconnectivity and an enhanced user experience, facilitating seamless access to vital information, both virtual and physical resources, and social services without temporal constraints. The widespread implementation of 6G is anticipated to diminish regional and social infrastructure disparities, fostering economic opportunities and offering alternatives to the trend of rural exodus driven by metropolitan-centric urbanisation. The introduction of 6G is poised to be a significant catalyst in bridging the gap in e-service availability between the urban and rural communities, in turn enriching people’s lives.
Whether applied to education, agriculture, or healthcare, the integration of AI/ML will play a pivotal role in driving innovation. Moreover, the exploration of quantum technologies holds promise for unparalleled advancements in quantum sensing, communication, security and computing. Alongside spectrum allocation in various bands, the establishment of a seamlessly integrated optical and wireless network, featuring wireless fibre-like segments where appropriate, becomes imperative. Special attention is warranted for gigabit passive optical network (GPON) engineering in rural areas.
As the cost-effectiveness of low earth orbit satellites increases and new technologies such as high altitude platform stations (HAPS) emerge, non-terrestrial wireless networks are poised to integrate with terrestrial networks. This integration will provide ubiquitous coverage not only on ships and aircraft but also in rural areas that are currently underserved by terrestrial networks in the Indian context. The emergence of 6G thus promises a paradigm shift, unlocking new possibilities for connectivity and communication across diverse sectors.
Potential for innovation
India’s prowess in technological innovation positions it as a key player in the 6G era. With a burgeoning tech ecosystem, the country has the potential to contribute significantly to the development and deployment of 6G technologies. However, international collaboration is paramount for the country’s 6G journey. Partnerships with global entities, academia and research institutions will accelerate innovation and position India as a collaborative force in shaping the future of communication.
Addressing infrastructure gaps
To realise the promise of 6G, addressing infrastructure gaps is essential. Investments in digital infrastructure, especially in rural areas, will be pivotal. Public and private collaboration can play a vital role in overcoming these challenges. A robust policy framework is the cornerstone of successful 6G adoption. Policies that encourage research, innovation and collaboration will provide the necessary foundation for the country’s journey into the 6G era.
Conclusion
To undertake a leadership role in 6G, India must strategically position itself to match steps with global front runners such as China and the US. As we stand at the brink of a communication revolution, India’s proactive measures today will sculpt its position as a global leader in the dynamic realm of 6G technologies. The future of communication beckons, presenting India with the opportunity to respond with visionary leadership and unparalleled technological prowess.
