By Jessy Cavazos, 6G Solutions Expert
As the world prepares for the next leap in wireless technology, India is shaping a bold and inclusive vision for 6G, one that goes beyond speed and latency to address real-world challenges. In a recent interview, Mohmedsaeed Mombasawala, Keysight’s General Manager for Industry Solutions in India, and a key contributor to 6G research efforts in India, shared insights into how the country is approaching 6G with a unique blend of pragmatism, innovation, and social impact.
A Use-Case First Philosophy
India’s 6G strategy is fundamentally use-case driven, a departure from traditional infrastructure-first rollouts. Rather than focusing solely on technical specifications or spectrum availability, the country is prioritizing solutions that address societal needs, especially in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and logistics.
This approach is particularly relevant for India’s vast and diverse population, where connectivity gaps persist in rural and remote areas. Mombasawala emphasized that 6G must be more than a technological upgrade: it must be a platform for transformation.
“We’re not just building networks. We’re building solutions for farmers, doctors, and supply chain operators,” he explained.
By anchoring 6G development in real-world applications, India aims to ensure that the technology delivers tangible benefits to communities that have historically been underserved by previous generations of wireless infrastructure.
AI-Native Networks: Intelligence at the Core
One of the most exciting aspects of India’s 6G vision is the emphasis on AI-native radio access networks (RAN). In this model, artificial intelligence isn’t just a tool, it’s a foundational design element. AI will be embedded throughout the network, enabling dynamic spectrum allocation, predictive maintenance, and real-time optimization of resources.
This shift reflects India’s strength in software and data science, positioning the country to play a key role in intelligent network design. It also aligns with global trends toward more autonomous and adaptive systems, where networks can learn, evolve, and respond to changing conditions without human intervention.
“AI will be central to how we manage, scale, and secure 6G networks,” Mombasawala noted. “It’s not just about efficiency, it’s about enabling new capabilities.”
Spectrum Strategy: Balancing Reach and Performance
While many countries are exploring high-frequency bands for ultra-fast data rates, India is taking a pragmatic approach to spectrum. The focus is on frequency range 3 (FR3) bands, which offer a balance between performance and coverage. These midband frequencies are well-suited for India’s geographic and demographic diversity, allowing for a broader reach without the need for dense infrastructure.
This strategy reflects a deep understanding of India’s connectivity landscape, where rural access remains a critical challenge. By prioritizing spectrum that supports ubiquitous coverage, India is ensuring that 6G can serve both urban innovation hubs and remote villages.
Collaborative R&D and Global Engagement
India’s 6G efforts are deeply collaborative, involving academia, startups, industry leaders, and government agencies. Mombasawala highlighted the importance of cross-sector partnerships in driving innovation and ensuring that 6G solutions are both technically robust and socially relevant.
At the same time, India is actively participating in global standardization efforts, contributing to international dialogues while tailoring its approach to local needs. This dual strategy—global alignment with local customization—is key to building a 6G ecosystem that is both interoperable and inclusive.
A Blueprint for Inclusive Innovation
India’s vision for 6G offers a compelling blueprint for countries seeking to balance technology innovation with social impact. By focusing on use cases, AI-native design, and inclusive spectrum planning, India is not just preparing for 6G; it’s redefining what 6G can be.
This approach challenges the notion that next-generation technology must be exclusive or elite. Instead, it positions 6G as a tool for empowerment, capable of transforming lives and industries across the socioeconomic spectrum.
“We want 6G to be a catalyst for change,” Mombasawala concluded. “Not just in how we connect, but in how we live, work, and grow.”
