Source: DH
Context: India and the United Kingdom jointly launched the India–UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre (CIC) to advance cooperation in digital technologies, 6G research, and secure communications, with an investment of million (₹282 crore) over four years.
About India–UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre (CIC):
What it is?
- The India–UK CIC is a bilateral research and innovation platform aimed at developing next-generation telecom technologies through joint academic, industrial, and governmental collaboration. It will serve as a hub for cutting-edge R&D, testing, and market deployment in digital connectivity.
Nations and Organisations Involved:
- Countries: India and the United Kingdom
- Implementing Agencies:
- India – Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications
- UK – Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT)
- Supported by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the UK–India Technology Security Initiative
Aim: To drive innovation in secure, inclusive, and resilient digital communications, while shaping the global ecosystem for 6G and AI-enabled telecom systems, aligned with the India–UK 2035 Vision.
Key Features:
- Joint Funding: million (approx. ₹282 crore) committed equally by both nations for 4 years.
- Focus Areas:
- AI in Telecom: Network optimization and intelligent service delivery.
- Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs): Satellite and airborne systems for rural connectivity.
- Telecom Cybersecurity: Secure, interoperable, and open communication infrastructure.
- Collaborative Research: Links university research with lab testing and pilot trials.
- Joint Testbeds: Establishes shared facilities for real-world application of emerging technologies.
- Standards Development: Encourages global interoperability through participation in international standard-setting bodies.
Significance:
- Enhances bilateral digital cooperation and strengthens India–UK innovation corridor.
- Accelerates 6G readiness and contributes to global telecom standards.
- Promotes digital inclusion by extending connectivity to remote areas via NTNs.
