Outline for the Center of Excellence on 5G/6G Technology
A Center of Excellence (CoE) in 5G/6G Technology
This groundbreaking initiative is being established by the Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) at IIT Kanpur, in partnership with key industry and academic experts. The CoE aims to propel India into the forefront of next-generation telecommunications, fostering innovation, research, and entrepreneurship in 5G and 6G technologies.
Key Objectives
- To enable research and development in cutting-edge 5G/6G network technologies and their applications.
- To support startups in the telecommunications sector with infrastructure, mentorship, and funding.
- To contribute to India’s digital transformation initiatives, boosting domestic innovation in telecommunications.
- To promote skill development in 5G/6G technologies for students, faculty, and professionals.
Infrastructure and Support
- World-class facilities: Advanced infrastructure including RF development boards, 5G baseband units, testing tools, and antenna design labs.
- Technological capabilities: Access to AI/ML servers for 6G design, supercomputing tools, and state-of-the-art testing facilities, including EMI/MC anechoic chambers and compliance testing equipment.
- Startup resources: Workspace with modern facilities, mentorship, and support for hardware and software product design.
- Equipment: IMS servers, IoT sensors, AI-enabled 5G cameras, 5G SIMs, and XR/VR/AR devices.
Key Features
- Startup Creation: Aiming to foster robust startups in 5G/6G, like Ananant Systems, a leading innovator in chip design and secure communication systems.
- Capacity Building: Organizing training, hackathons, and demo days to empower professionals and innovators.
- Global Collaboration: Facilitating partnerships and events with national and international stakeholders, including Bharat 6G Alliance and Ericsson.
- Research and Development: Driving technological advancements through AI/ML-powered tools and advanced product design facilities.
Impact and Outcomes
- Startups: Creation of a thriving ecosystem of startups pioneering 5G/6G solutions.
- Skill Development: Enhanced technical skills for students and professionals in cutting-edge telecommunication technologies.
- Global Reach: Integration with global networks to promote Indian innovations in telecommunications.
- Sustainability: Long-term support for startups and innovations to ensure continued impact beyond the CoE’s initial tenure.
- Funding for startups: ₹52 lakh annually, along with mentoring, training, and testing facilities.
Leadership and Governance
The CoE is steered by a distinguished governing body comprising experts from academia and industry, ensuring a collaborative and strategic approach to achieving its goals.
This Center of Excellence promises to establish IIT Kanpur as a global hub for 5G/6G innovation, empowering startups, and driving technological advancements to redefine telecommunications in India and beyond.
