Current Affairs 9 November 2024
In-Depth Analysis: 6G
Syllabus: Science and Technology
Source: Sansad TV
Context:
India aspires to become a global leader in 6G technology by 2030 with the Bharat 6G Mission, which builds on the success of 5G deployment that reached 98% of districts in just 21 months.
Features of 6G Technology:
- Terahertz (THz) Frequencies: 6G will use THz waves that can carry significantly more data than the higher frequencies used in 5G.
- Massive MIMO: This technology enables multiple antennas to transmit and receive data to a large number of devices simultaneously, enhancing network efficiency.
- Network Slicing: This allows the creation of specialized networks tailored to specific traffic types, such as video streaming or industrial automation.
- Enhanced Security: 6G will implement advanced encryption and authentication to safeguard sensitive data.
- Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communication (URLLC): It ensures very low latency, crucial for mission-critical applications like industrial automation, AR/VR, and more.
- Integrated Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces (IIRS): These surfaces improve signal strength and quality in areas with weak reception.
- High-Speed Data Transfer: 6G will enable faster communication with data rates operating on hundreds of GHz or THz frequencies.
Steps Taken by the Government on 6G:
- Bharat 6G Vision and Strategy:
- Vision Statement: India aims to design, develop, and deploy 6G technologies to provide secure, intelligent, and pervasive connectivity worldwide.
- Core Principles: The vision aligns with the goal of an Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) with an emphasis on affordability, sustainability, and ubiquity.
- Goals:
- Foster R&D through startups, universities, and industry collaborations.
- Develop affordable 6G telecom solutions.
- Position India as a global IP and patent leader in 6G technology.
- Enhance the quality of life through transformative applications of 6G.
- Technology Innovation Group (TIG) on 6G:
- Established in November 2021, the group works on a roadmap for 6G in India, covering:
- Multidisciplinary solutions
- Spectrum management
- Devices and networks
- International standards
- R&D funding
- Established in November 2021, the group works on a roadmap for 6G in India, covering:
- Bharat 6G Alliance:
- This alliance is a collaboration between domestic industry, academia, and research institutions focused on advancing 5G technologies, developing 6G products, and creating patents.
- It aligns with global organizations such as the Next G Alliance (US), 6G Flagship (Finland), and South Korea’s 6G Forum.
Applications of 6G Technology:
Application Area | Description |
Healthcare | Real-time patient monitoring via AI-connected devices and intelligent ambulances. |
Agriculture | Predictive systems, crop health monitoring, and optimized irrigation using IoT and AI. |
Defense & Internal Security | Enhanced surveillance, dynamic communication, and unmanned operations. |
Disaster Response | Instant, high-volume communication for emergency coordination. |
Transportation | Urban air mobility and intelligent traffic management with ultra-low latency. |
Education | Supports remote learning with high-speed video transfer and AR/VR-enabled classrooms. |
Metaverse | 3D holographic displays and seamless virtual interactions. |
Industrial Automation | Smart factories powered by real-time data and xURLLC for better operational efficiency. |
Smart Cities | Enhances IoT connectivity for efficient urban management and monitoring. |
Entertainment & Media | Improved streaming quality, immersive content, and higher bandwidth. |
Environmental Monitoring | Real-time data collection from sensors for better resource management. |
Challenges Associated with 6G Technology:
- Technical Complexity: The development and deployment of advanced components are highly complex.
- Infrastructure Deployment: Requires substantial investment and regulatory support for infrastructure upgrades.
- Spectrum Allocation: Limited spectrum availability complicates its allocation amid competing demands.
- Security Concerns: High-speed data transmission increases vulnerabilities to cyber-attacks, necessitating strong security measures.
- Standardization Issues: Achieving a global consensus on interoperability standards can be time-consuming.
- Global Collaboration: International cooperation among stakeholders is crucial for technological and regulatory alignment.
Conclusion:
India’s 6G mission represents a forward-thinking approach to technological leadership, setting the stage for socio-economic growth and global connectivity. With strategic investments, global collaborations, and inclusive policies, India aims to lead the world in 6G, positioning itself at the forefront of the next technological revolution.
Previous Year Question
Which of the following is/are the aims/aims of the “Digital India” Plan of the Government of India? (UPSC-2018)
- Formation of India’s own Internet companies like China did.
- Establish a policy framework to encourage overseas multinational corporations that collect Big Data to build their large data centers within our national geographical boundaries.
- Connect many of our villages to the Internet and bring Wi-Fi to many of our schools, public places, and major tourist centers.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(Answer: b)
