The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India is leading several transformative initiatives aimed at advancing the country’s digital infrastructure. Through innovative technologies like AI-driven Digital Twins, 6G spectrum development and the expansive rollout of 5G services, India is positioning itself as a global leader in digital transformation.
AI-driven Digital Twins represent one of the most promising advancements in infrastructure planning and design. Traditional methods often rely on siloed, static data, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities.
AI-powered Digital Twins, however, integrate real-time, cross-sectoral data from diverse sources to create dynamic, interactive models of physical assets and infrastructure. These digital replicas continuously monitor systems and use predictive analytics to optimise resource allocation, simulate various scenarios and improve infrastructure resilience.
By enhancing data-driven decision-making, Digital Twins offer a more collaborative and holistic approach to planning. As OpenGov Asia reported, the DoT launched the ‘Sangam: Digital Twin’ initiative in February 2024 to invite industry pioneers, startups, MSMEs and academic institutions to contribute to this innovative technology.
A total of 169 applicants, including startups, were selected, underscoring the significant interest and potential for growth in this area. The implementation of AI-driven Digital Twins in telecom infrastructure will depend on various factors, such as regulatory support, collaboration and stakeholder engagement. This collaborative approach will ensure that innovations are scalable and adaptable to future infrastructure needs.
Another key initiative is the development of 6G technology, with India aiming to be a global frontrunner in its design, development and deployment by 2030. In March 2023, India launched the ‘Bharat 6G Vision,’ a strategic roadmap to position India as a leader in the next generation of mobile networks. This vision is built on the principles of affordability, sustainability and ubiquity, aiming to make 6G accessible across the nation.
The DoT has facilitated the establishment of the ‘Bharat 6G Alliance’, a collaborative body comprising domestic industries, academia, national research institutions and standards organisations. The alliance will formulate an action plan to ensure the successful realisation of India’s 6G goals.
Additionally, the DoT is actively involved in global discussions on 6G frequency bands with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). A decision on the allocation of these bands will be made at the World Radio Communication Conference in 2027, which will play a pivotal role in advancing India’s 6G objectives. These global discussions are crucial in ensuring India’s competitive edge in the rapidly evolving 6G landscape.
Simultaneously, India’s 5G rollout has gained significant momentum, with the government implementing several measures to streamline the process and encourage faster deployment. These include spectrum auctions for 5G services, financial reforms to rationalise Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) and the introduction of the PM GatiShakti Sanchar portal to simplify the Right of Way (RoW) permissions.
As of February 2025, 5G services are now available in all 773 districts of India, including Lakshadweep. Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) have installed over 469,000 5G Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs) across the country, with services now available in urban and rural areas. TSPs have also exceeded their minimum rollout obligations and further expansion will depend on commercial viability and demand.
The government’s focus on simplifying infrastructure installation, including permitting the use of street furniture for small cell installations and streamlining regulatory procedures, has further accelerated the process.
These initiatives reflect India’s commitment to strengthening its telecommunications infrastructure and digital ecosystem. By embracing AI-driven Digital Twins, positioning itself as a global leader in 6G and expanding 5G services across the nation, the DoT is ensuring India’s technological advancement, growth and competitiveness in the rapidly evolving global digital landscape. Through continued innovation and collaboration, these efforts will play a crucial role in driving India’s future digital economy.
---
Autor(en)/Author(s): Samaya Dharmaraj
Quelle/Source: Open Gov Asia, 13.03.2025
Bitte besuchen Sie/Please visit:
