India’s locally developed 4G technology stack is set to roll out by mid-next year, and the country is also targeting a 10% share in global 6G patents, according to Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. Speaking at an industry event, Scindia emphasized that India has emerged as a symbol of hope and stability amidst global economic and social challenges. He highlighted India’s transformation from a struggling economy to one on the rise, comparing its resurgence to a phoenix on the world stage.
Scindia noted that India’s telecom sector has achieved one of the fastest 5G network rollouts globally, with over 450,000 towers established within 22 months. He further added that the country’s own 4G stack will be deployed by mid-next year. “It’s crucial not just to implement but to design and develop indigenous technology,” he said, stressing that India should aim to set global standards rather than merely follow them.
1 Lakh ‘’Made in India 4G” towers to be deployed by mid-2025. pic.twitter.com/FKO4qvfN8X
— DoT India (@DoT_India) September 11, 2024
State-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. (BSNL) is currently rolling out its 4G network using this homegrown technology. Around 22,500 mobile towers have already been set up, with the goal of reaching 100,000 sites by next year’s deadline.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is also positioning India to lead in the development of 6G technology. “Our goal is to secure 10% of international patents for India in 6G through the Bharat 6G Alliance,” Scindia said. He outlined three key focus areas for the future of India’s telecom sector: achieving full digital connectivity across the country, promoting Make-in-India initiatives, and ensuring India is equipped with future-ready technology.
Scindia added that the first priority is achieving full digital saturation, aiming for 100% connectivity across India by mid-2025. The second target is to continue driving Make-in-India efforts, with the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme playing a critical role. Lastly, he emphasized the importance of adopting and developing new technologies, stating that India must harness its own capabilities to create and advance future technologies.
