Bharat 6G Vision explained: How India is preparing for the post-5G world

The plan goes beyond infrastructure; it’s about building an ecosystem that includes academic research, industry collaboration, local manufacturing, and participation in international standard-setting.

Source | The six core pillars of Bharat 6G Vision

Bharat 6G Vision has several strategic pillars focusing on innovation in areas like AI-driven air interfaces, dense optical networks, supporting early-stage research and development, and encouraging Indian startups to create impactful telecom solutions. The mission also emphasises the importance of security, standardisation, resources, and interoperability.

What are the key objectives and timeline of the vision?

The Bharat 6G Vision sets clear targets for positioning 6G in India as a globally competitive force. Its top objectives are enabling India to develop and supply affordable 6G products, which will enhance IP creation, support homegrown research, and ensure strong participation in international telecom standards. The goal is to make the 6G network a foundation for high-speed, intelligent, and secure digital services.

The global commercial deployment is expected to begin in 2030. While 6G in India is still in its research phase, the country aims to align its efforts with this timeline. Focus areas for research and development include AI-driven networks, LEO satellite constellations, intelligent edge computing, and immersive tech like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) - all vital to shaping the future of connectivity.

Phases of Bharat 6G Vision

The phased approach gives 6G in India a structured timeline to transition from theory to deployment. It keeps the larger goal of a resilient 6G network in sync with the national vision of Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) Bharat.

Phase 1 (2023 to 2025): This phase is centred on ideation and early experimentation. Proof-of-concept trials, initial research, and exploration of high risks are all encouraged to understand what could work at scale.

Phase 2 (2025 to 2030): This phase moves the spotlight to development and deployment. Promising concepts from the initial stage are expected to be executed into actual tech solutions. These include IP generation, testbed creation, and the development of commercial-grade prototypes that can serve both domestic and international needs.

Government initiatives supporting the 6G network

Here’s how the government is supporting the growth of 6G in India:

• The Government of India has funded two dedicated testbeds - the 6G Terahertz Testbed and the Advanced Optical Communication Testbed - to support research, testing, and innovation for the upcoming 6G network.
• Over 111 research projects have been approved to accelerate innovation across key areas of 6G in India, including AI-native and intelligent networks and terahertz communication.
• A total of 100 5G labs have been sanctioned across academic institutions to build a future-ready talent and startup ecosystem aligned with the Bharat 6G Vision.
• Bharat 6G Alliance, a leading collaborative platform, brings together domestic industry, academia, R&D institutions, standards bodies, and telecom service providers to drive the national 6G network strategy.
• India has also entered global partnerships with countries such as Japan, Finland, and Singapore to align with international 6G efforts and promote joint research.

Potential impact and significance of 6G in India

• In healthcare, AI-connected ambulances and wearable devices will enable mobile hospitals and real-time health data sharing for potential treatment.
• The agricultural sector will benefit from smart systems like the Internet of Things (IoT) and AI to predict crop yields, monitor crop health, and plan irrigation or pesticide schedules.
• For defence and internal security, unmanned surveillance grids and digital twins of battlefields will offer better situational awareness.
• In disaster response, integrated satellite and dense network systems will improve instant communication and rescue operations.

What are the challenges and the road ahead?

While the Bharat 6G Vision presents a strong blueprint, several challenges need to be addressed:

• Advanced infrastructure for terahertz communication, low-latency networks, and dense coverage will require major public and private investment.
• Effective spectrum management policies must be in place to support the dynamic and high-capacity requirements of 6G in India.
• Strengthening cybersecurity protocols and privacy frameworks is necessary to support intelligent, interconnected systems.
• Standardisation across devices, networks, and global partners must be ensured for seamless deployment and global interoperability.

The road ahead looks promising and will depend on how effectively the government and industry come together to bridge gaps and drive innovation to make 6G in India a reality by 2030.