18 June 2024 : PIB Summary For UPSC

1. DoT announces two significant calls for proposals aimed at catalyzing innovation and technological advancement in the telecommunications sector

(Source –https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2025988)

Topic: GS3 –  Science and Technology

Context

Department of Telecommunications (DoT) announced two proposals: 5G Intelligent Village and Quantum Encryption Algorithm (QEA), which aimed to catalyse innovation and technological advancement in the telecom sector. Both proposals shall be funded under the Telecom Technology Development Fund scheme of the DoT.

Analysis of the news:

• In line with the “Jan Anusandhan” initiative to promote start-ups in the country and establish a robust ecosystem of research and entrepreneurship, the DoT’s calls for proposals underscore its commitment to fostering indigenous R&D, promoting IP creation, and achieving inclusive digital growth across India.
• Under Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme, the proposal shall be funded and represents pivotal steps towards advanced technologies for societal benefit and represent pivotal steps towards harnessing advanced technologies for societal benefit and reinforcing India’s leadership in telecommunications innovation.
• About 5G Intelligent Village:
• The Initiative seeks to harness the benefits of the fifth generation network technology to uplift rural communities.
• The call for proposals, titled “From Connectivity Gaps to Smart Solutions: Designing 5G Networks for Rural Innovation, 5G Intelligent Villages,” aims to address key pillars such as agriculture, education, healthcare, governance, and sustainability.
• Dharmaj, Dist. Anand, Gujarat, Ramgarh Urf Rajahi, Dist Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, Bajargaon, Dist Nagpur, Maharashtra, Dablong, Dist Nagaon, Assam and others, are the proposed village locations under this initiative.
• Proposals are invited to enable effective utilization of Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication and massive Machine Type Communication (mMTC) aspects of 5G in selected villages.
• Proposals can also include plans for establishing 5G connectivity in areas without existing coverage.
• This initiative aims to unite telecom operators, CCV suppliers, sensor manufacturersand IoT providers on a single platform to explore and exploit the potential advantages of 5G.
• About Quantum Encryption Algorithm (QEA):
• The second call for proposals focuses on developing an India-specific Quantum Encryption Algorithm (QEA).
• This initiative represents a cutting-edge approach to securing digital communication channels by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics.
• The algorithm is expected to ensure unparalleled security, advanced encryption capabilities, and ultrafast and efficient encryption.
• The DoT is looking forward to collaborative efforts to realise the potential of 5G and quantum encryption for a digitally resilient future.
• These initiatives aim to promote indigenous research, design, prototyping, proof-of-concept testing, IPR creation, field-testing, security certification, and manufacturing of telecommunications products.

About Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF)

It has been set up under the Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF) of Department of Telecom (DOT), Government of India. It provides the framework for these activities, fostering an ecosystem that supports the entire lifecycle of technological development in the telecommunications field.