India–UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre (CIC)
Syllabus: Science & Technology (UPSC Prelims)
Source: Deccan Herald (DH)
Context:
India and the United Kingdom have jointly launched the India–UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre (CIC) to strengthen cooperation in digital technologies, 6G research, and secure communications. The initiative involves a joint investment of £27 million (around ₹282 crore) over four years.
Overview:
What is it?
The India–UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre (CIC) is a bilateral research and innovation platform designed to develop next-generation telecom technologies. It brings together researchers, industries, and government agencies to promote cutting-edge R&D, testing, and deployment in the field of digital connectivity.
Participating Nations and Agencies:
- Countries: India and the United Kingdom
- Implementing Agencies:
- India: Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications
- UK: Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT)
- Supported by: UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the UK–India Technology Security Initiative
Objectives:
- To drive innovation in secure, inclusive, and resilient digital communications.
- To advance 6G and AI-enabled telecom systems for future-ready connectivity.
- To support the India–UK 2035 Vision of technological cooperation and global digital leadership.
Key Features:
1. Joint Funding:
A total investment of £27 million (₹282 crore), shared equally by both nations over four years.
2. Focus Areas:
- AI in Telecom: For network optimization, predictive maintenance, and smart service delivery.
- Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs): Satellite and airborne systems to connect rural and remote regions.
- Telecom Cybersecurity: Developing secure, open, and interoperable networks for future communication systems.
3. Collaborative Research:
Facilitates partnerships between universities, research labs, and industries for testing and pilot projects.
4. Shared Testbeds:
Creation of joint testing facilities for real-world trials of new telecom technologies.
5. Standards Development:
Encourages global standardisation through participation in international telecom bodies.
Significance:
- Strengthens India–UK collaboration in science, technology, and innovation.
- Boosts 6G preparedness and contributes to setting global telecom standards.
- Promotes digital inclusion by improving connectivity in underserved areas.
- Positions both countries as leaders in secure and sustainable digital ecosystems.
Conclusion:
The India–UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre marks a new phase in bilateral technological cooperation. By combining expertise in AI, cybersecurity, and next-generation networks, it aims to build a secure, inclusive, and future-ready digital communication framework that benefits both nations and the global telecom community.
