Roadmap for Rollout of 6G Technology in India

India is preparing to leap into the sixth generation (6G) of mobile technology, guided by a structured roadmap and a futuristic vision for ubiquitous, intelligent, and secure connectivity. With 6G expected to roll out globally by 2030, India is aligning with international standards while developing a robust domestic framework through policies like the Bharat 6G Vision Document, launched in March 2023. This roadmap not only enhances technological capabilities but also positions India as a future global leader in 6G innovation.

IMT-2030: Global Vision for 6G

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has established a blueprint for the development of 6G under the IMT‑2030 framework. It outlines enhanced capabilities and new functionalities that go beyond what 5G can deliver.

Key Features of IMT‑2030

• Ultra-high data speeds, potentially reaching up to 200 Gbps
• Extremely low latency under 1 millisecond
• Massive device connectivity in dense environments
• AI-native network infrastructure for intelligent traffic management
• Sensing and positioning integration, enabling advanced applications
• Enhanced security, energy efficiency, and sustainability

This framework sets the foundation for how 6G networks will be conceptualized, developed, and rolled out by the end of this decade.

Bharat 6G Vision: India’s Strategic Blueprint

Unveiled in March 2023, the Bharat 6G Vision outlines India’s goal to emerge as a key contributor in global 6G development. It emphasizes designing technologies that are inclusive, sustainable, and affordable, catering not only to domestic needs but also to the global south.

Two-Phase Rollout Strategy

• Phase 1 (2023–2025): Focuses on research, pilot projects, and technology validation.
• Phase 2 (2025–2030): Translates innovations into commercially deployable 6G systems.

This phased approach ensures that India is ready to both contribute to and benefit from the global 6G rollout.

Building the 6G Ecosystem: Key Initiatives

5G Labs for Academic Readiness

To ensure a seamless transition to 6G, 100 5G labs have been set up in academic institutions across the country. These labs support capacity building, facilitate research, and nurture a start-up ecosystem aimed at 6G innovations.

Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF)

Launched in October 2022, the TTDF scheme plays a vital role in funding R&D projects related to telecom and 6G. It encourages collaboration among academia, start-ups, MSMEs, and industry.

• 104 projects related to 6G have been approved.
• ₹275.88 crore has been allocated as of July 2025.
• This funding accelerates the development of indigenous technologies needed for a resilient 6G framework.

Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA)

The Bharat 6G Alliance brings together stakeholders from industry, academia, national research institutions, and standards organizations. It is tasked with crafting actionable steps to implement the Bharat 6G Vision. Through global partnerships, it also ensures India remains integrated with international 6G standardization efforts.

Technology Innovation Hub at IIIT Bangalore

A Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) has been set up under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems. This hub focuses on advanced technologies essential for 6G such as,

• Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS): Enhances network signal coverage.
• O-RAN Massive MIMO systems: Boosts capacity and enables precise sensing capabilities.

These technologies are crucial for ensuring 6G networks are not only fast but also intelligent and adaptable.

Strategic Objectives and Global Positioning

India’s roadmap aims to contribute 10% of global 6G patents by 2027, positioning the country as a leading innovator in this field. The government is also working to ensure inclusive connectivity by leveraging 6G technologies to bridge digital divides, especially in rural and underserved regions.

Collaborative research programs, policy frameworks, and technology pilots are being aligned to ensure that India is not just a consumer but a creator of 6G solutions.