The partnership focuses on collaborative research, joint technical studies, and contributions to global standardisation efforts in emerging domains such as 6G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Open RAN, and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs). This move aligns with the government’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat by fostering indigenous innovation and reducing reliance on imported technologies.
The MoU was signed by Shri Amit Kumar Srivastava, DDG (Mobile Technologies), TEC, and Prof. Budaraju Srinivasa Murty, Director, IIT Hyderabad, in the presence of senior DoT and IIT officials. The collaboration will enable India to actively contribute to international telecom bodies like ITU-T and 3GPP.
Key Focus Areas of Collaboration
- Mobile Communication Technologies: Research on network architecture, signalling, and protocols for 4G, 5G, and IoT ecosystems.
- Open RAN & Network Disaggregation: Joint exploration of open interfaces, orchestration, and interoperability frameworks.
- 6G Development: Studies on next-generation network architecture and enabling technologies for 6G standardisation.
- Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs): Integration of terrestrial and satellite communication, including HAPS and LEO satellites.
- Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) Studies: Collaborative research on SAR compliance, exposure frameworks, and public health impacts.
Strengthening India’s Role in Global Telecom Standardisation
This MoU marks a strategic milestone in India’s journey towards technological self-reliance. By empowering domestic R&D institutions, the partnership will expand India’s technical footprint in international telecom forums and encourage home-grown innovation for future networks.
According to the Department of Telecommunications, the collaboration will not only enhance India’s participation in global standardisation platforms but also help shape India-specific standards and test frameworks, critical for secure and reliable communications infrastructure.
About TEC
The Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) is the technical authority under DoT responsible for developing technical standards, specifications, and conformity assessment requirements for telecom networks and equipment in India. It ensures quality, interoperability, and alignment with global best practices while representing India at major international bodies such as ITU and 3GPP.
About IIT Hyderabad
Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH), established in 2008, is among India’s premier technical institutions known for its advanced research in 5G/6G technologies, AI, and future communication networks. The institute’s ongoing collaborations with global research bodies and telecom industries make it a natural partner for TEC’s initiatives.
Towards an Atmanirbhar Telecom Future
Through this partnership, TEC and IIT Hyderabad aim to accelerate indigenous research and design capabilities in telecom, paving the way for India’s leadership in 6G and beyond. This initiative complements national missions such as Digital India and Make in India, focusing on innovation-led growth and technological sovereignty.