Outline for the Center of Excellence on 5G/6G Technology by IIT Roorkee

A Center of Excellence (CoE) in Ubiquitous Wireless Communication
This transformative initiative is being established by IIT Roorkee (Saharanpur Campus), in collaboration with industry leaders such as Telecommunications Consultants India Limited (TCIL) and government bodies like the Department of Telecommunications, GoI. The CoE will propel advancements in 5G/6G wireless technologies and create a vibrant ecosystem for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Key Objectives

• To develop next-generation wireless communication technologies, aligning with India’s Bharat 6G Vision.
• To foster startups and innovations in 5G/6G technologies through robust infrastructure and mentorship.
• To promote skill development and capacity building in advanced telecommunication systems.
• To support the “Make-in-India” mission by facilitating indigenous development of 5G/6G solutions.

Infrastructure and Support

1. State-of-the-art facilities: A 15,000 sq. ft. area with labs for wireless communication, computational design, and intelligent sensing, supported by advanced equipment like Massive MIMO testbeds, mmWave modules, and beamforming devices.
2. Testing and prototyping: Sub-THz characterization facilities, AI/ML platforms, and IoT sensor kits to enable startups to develop and validate cutting-edge solutions.
3. Startup support: CoE will assist over 100 AI and telecom startups, providing a platform for product development and global market entry.
4. Collaboration opportunities: Partnerships with industry leaders and global organizations like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

Key Features

1. Technology Development: Research in 5G/6G use cases, vehicular communication, AI/ML for wireless systems, and chip design for RF and THz circuits.
2. Capacity Building: Training programs to create skilled manpower in telecommunication and digitization.
3. Knowledge Base: Publications, patents, and technology transfers to advance academic and industrial knowledge.
4. Global Standards Compliance: Assistance in standardization to bring Indian innovations to global markets.

Impact and Outcomes

1. Startups: Establishing a strong startup ecosystem with access to cutting-edge facilities and mentorship.
2. Research and Innovation: Driving innovation in beyond-5G technologies like THz communication, UAV-aided systems, and AI-enhanced networks.
3. Skill Development: Training programs for students, faculty, and professionals in wireless communication.
4. Global Reach: Supporting Indian telecom startups to compete globally with partners like TCIL operating in 80+ countries..
5. Major investments: Technical equipment like Sub-THz characterization facilities (₹650 lakhs) and Massive MIMO testbeds (₹200 lakhs).

Leadership and Governance

The CoE is guided by a distinguished team of professors and industry experts to ensure its strategic direction and operational excellence.

This Center of Excellence at IIT Roorkee promises to position India as a leader in 5G/6G technologies, fostering innovation, and contributing to the nation’s digital transformation