Bharat 6G Project

Source : Indian Express


Why in News?
The Prime Minister recently unveiled a Vision Document to roll out 6G Communication Services by 2030 and launched the Bharat 6G Project, aimed at funding research and deploying next-generation communication technologies. Additionally, the government introduced the Call Before You Dig (CBuD) app, designed to enhance coordination between excavation agencies and underground utility providers, reducing infrastructure damage.


What is the Bharat 6G Project?
Overview
  • The Bharat 6G Project is set to be implemented in two phases:
    • Phase 1 (2023–2025): Focused on exploring innovative ideas, testing high-risk pathways, and conducting proof-of-concept experiments.
    • Phase 2 (2025–2030): Concentrates on refining promising technologies, establishing use cases, and commercializing implementable Intellectual Properties (IPs) and testbeds.
  • An Apex Council has been established to oversee:
    • Standardization processes.
    • Spectrum identification for 6G use.
    • Creation of a comprehensive ecosystem for 6G devices, systems, and funding for research and development.
    • Focus on cutting-edge technologies like Terahertz communication, AI-driven connected intelligence, tactile internet, new encoding methods, and 6G-compatible chipsets.
Key Objectives
  • Position India as a global leader in affordable 6G solutions, intellectual property, and products.
  • Identify priority areas for 6G research leveraging India’s competitive advantages.
Significance
  • The project will act as a platform for innovation, providing opportunities for start-ups, researchers, and industries to develop broadband applications.
  • Applications include e-Governance, smart cities, rural broadband, and other Digital India initiatives aligned with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

India’s Digital Ecosystem
Rapid Growth
  • India has become the second-largest telecom market globally, with 1.2 billion digital subscribers.
  • The country’s digital economy has grown 2.5 times faster than its overall economy over the past nine years.
Key Achievements
  • Broadband Penetration: Increased from 60 million users to 800 million.
  • Internet Connectivity: Grew from 250 million connections to 850 million.
  • Infrastructure: Over 2.5 million km of optical fiber have been laid through joint efforts by the government and private sector.
  • UPI Transactions: India handles 8 billion UPI transactions monthly, showcasing its digital payment efficiency.
  • Direct Benefit Transfers: More than ₹28 lakh crore have been directly transferred to citizens.
  • E-Authentication: 70 million electronic authentications occur daily.

What is 6G Technology?
Definition
  • 6G is the next step in wireless communication, succeeding 5G technology.
  • It aims to operate at higher frequencies and deliver exponentially greater speed and efficiency.
Features
  • Microsecond Latency: Offers communication delays of just one microsecond, which is 1,000 times faster than 5G’s millisecond latency.
  • Terahertz Frequency Band: Utilizes terahertz waves, positioned between infrared and microwaves on the electromagnetic spectrum, unlocking massive unused bandwidth for high-speed data transmission.
Potential Benefits
  • Enables applications requiring ultra-fast data rates and near-instantaneous communication.
  • Supports advanced technologies like the tactile internet, enabling real-time interactions in fields such as remote surgery, autonomous vehicles, and virtual reality.

By spearheading the Bharat 6G Project, India aims to not only advance its technological capabilities but also solidify its position as a global leader in next-generation wireless technology. The integration of 6G with Digital India initiatives promises transformative changes across sectors, fostering innovation and economic growth.

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