Vi’s AI-Powered Vi Protect Flags 600M+ Scam Calls, Launches Real-Time Threat Response

Vi, India’s leading telecom operator, today announced Vi Protect, a comprehensive AI-powered initiative that unifies all of Vi’s consumer, network, and enterprise safety and security measures against the rapidly evolving landscape of spam, scams, and cyber-attacks under one umbrella.

As part of this initiative, Vi introduced two powerful measures at India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025. An AI-based Voice Spam Detection system and AI-driven network defence and incident response system for its core network.

Vi’s voice spam detection detects and flags fraudulent and spam calls in real time. Using advanced AI models, web crawlers, and user feedback, it identifies suspicious callers before they reach the customer. When a potentially fraudulent number calls a Vi customer, the phone screen will display ‘Suspected Spam’, thereby helping customers decide whether to answer the call. Unlike third-party caller ID apps, this feature works natively within Vi’s network, ensuring better accuracy, and enhanced privacy.

This new feature builds on Vi’s existing robust consumer protection measures that now fall under the Vi Protect umbrella, including:

• Spam Filtering of Text Messages: Fraudulent SMS messages are detected and flagged to customers
• International Calling Display: A first of its kind measure in the industry, International Calling Display makes it easier for customers to easily recognise genuine international calls and make informed decisions
• AI-powered Threat Analysis: Integrated with Vi’s DNS, SMS, and Voice Gateways, an analytical engine continuously learns from threat patterns to enhance protection

Thus far, Vi’s security systems have successfully flagged over 600 million spam and scam calls and messages, protecting millions of customers from fraud and data theft. Vi will soon be launching URL Protection in real time: scanning and blocking suspicious links to prevent phishing and malware attacks.

Under Vi Protect, Vi has also introduced an upgraded AI-powered Cyber Defense and Incident Response System to protect its core network and enterprise operations. This defense center uses agentic and generative AI models to detect, analyze, and neutralize potential cyber threats in under an hour, compared to earlier longer response times. The system is nearly 70 percent more accurate and minimizes false positives. The solution follows a five-step defense mechanism including:

• Anomaly Detection: Agentic AI proactively detects abnormal activity
• Contextualization and Categorization: The system classifies incidents using contextual intelligence
• Interface Engine Agent: High-volume data is processed for rapid decision-making
• Suggestive Intelligence: AI prioritizes response actions based on risk levels
• Human Validation: Expert analysts validate AI findings, continuously improving the model

Vi will also extend this capability to its enterprise customers soon, offering predictive insights by co-relating global cyber events and attack timelines.

Through Vi Protect, Vi is reinforcing its commitment to cyber resilience and enhancing customer trust, strengthening its role as a secure and trusted enabler of India’s digital future.

Speaking on Vi Protect, Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer, Vi, said –

With India’s growing digital adoption and global prominence, protecting customers networks has never been more important. Vi Protect uses advanced AI and proactive measures to protect our customers and strengthen our networks. Vi Protect is our commitment to a safe and trusted digital environment.

National Telecom R&D and Skilling Hub Takes Shape in Jabalpur, MP As BSNL Ties With Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco & Nokia

BSNL has launched a major industry-led digital skilling initiative at its premier training institute, Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT), Jabalpur, in collaboration with Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia. Here's a breakdown of the initiative's scope, objectives, and impact:

This development is a step towards a broader plan by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, to establish a Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC) at BRBRAITT. Envisioned as an industry-led national hub, TIRTC will focus on developing telecom-specific R&D talent and a future-ready workforce — aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Skill India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

TIRTC will also support product innovation, prototyping, and telecom entrepreneurship in the long term.

Initiative Overview

• Partners: Ericsson India, Qualcomm Technologies, Cisco Systems, Nokia Solutions and Networks India
• Location: Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT), Jabalpur
• Focus Areas: 5G, AI/ML, Cybersecurity, Networking
• Annual Training Goal: Over 2,000 students

Training Programs & Infrastructure

Partner	Contribution	Training Focus
Ericsson	5G Centre of Excellence + Ericsson Educate Program	Hands-on 5G training, global curriculum
Qualcomm	Qualcomm Institute + sponsored training for first 100 participants	Advanced 5G & AI, internships
Cisco	Cisco Networking Academy Program	Networking, cybersecurity, IT skills
Nokia	5G Centre of Excellence + AI/ML Lab + joint certification with BRBRAITT	5G radio/core networks, AI/ML

Strategic Goals

• Establish Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC) at BRBRAITT
• Support national missions: Digital India, Skill India, Make in India, Startup India, Atmanirbhar Bharat
• Build a digitally enabled, job-ready youth workforce. 
• Position Jabalpur as a national hub for telecom R&D, innovation, and skilling

Launch & Leadership

• MoUs signed in New Delhi
• Attended by Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal, BSNL leadership, and partner company representatives

Vodafone Idea Acquires 26% Stake in Aditya Birla Renewables SPV to Power Telecom Ops

In a strategic move to bolster its renewable energy portfolio, Vodafone Idea Limited has signed binding Purchase and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) on August 12, 2025, to acquire a 26% equity stake in Aditya Birla Renewables SPV 3 Limited (ABRen SPV 3). The special-purpose vehicle (SPV) has been established to own and operate a captive power plant, aimed at supplying clean energy to Vodafone Idea’s telecom operations.

Transaction Highlights

• Equity Stake: 26% in ABRen SPV 3
• Investment Value: ₹1.56 crore, to be infused in tranches over six months
• SPV Incorporation: November 21, 2024
• Authorised Share Capital: ₹6.50 crore
• Paid-up Capital: ₹1 lakh (10,000 equity shares of ₹10 each)
• Turnover: Nil as of date

The agreements were executed with Aditya Birla Renewables Limited, a related party under the Companies Act, 2013. The transaction has received approvals from both the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors of Vodafone Idea.

Vodafone Idea’s investment aligns with regulatory provisions under the Electricity Act, 2003, and the Indian Electricity Rules, 2005, which mandate equity participation for captive power consumption. The move is expected to provide cost-effective and sustainable energy, reducing operational costs and carbon footprint across its telecom infrastructure.

A spokesperson from Vodafone Idea commented, “This partnership reinforces our commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. By investing in captive renewable energy, we aim to optimize costs and contribute to India’s clean energy transition.”

The telecom sector is increasingly turning to renewable energy to meet rising power demands while adhering to ESG goals. Vodafone Idea’s latest investment reflects a broader industry trend toward green infrastructure and energy independence.

Vi Launches 5G Services in Sonipat

Leading telecom operator Vi announced the launch of its 5G services in Sonipat, starting today. This expansion is part of Vi’s ongoing 5G rollout across 23 cities, in its 17 priority circles, where it has acquired 5G spectrum.

Earlier, Vi introduced 5G services in major cities including Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Bangalore, Mysuru, Chandigarh, Patna, Nagpur and Jaipur, as it continues to expand its 5G services to more customers across India.

Vi users in Sonipat with 5G-enabled devices can access Vi 5G services starting tomorrow. As an introductory offer, Vi is providing unlimited 5G data to users on plans starting from ₹299. Customers can enjoy high-definition streaming, gaming, video conferencing, faster downloads, and real-time cloud access.

Commenting on the launch, Rahul Joshi, Business Head –Punjab, Haryana, HP & JK, Vodafone Idea, said: “As we launch Vi 5G in Sonipat, we are excited to bring the future of connectivity to Haryana. With our next-gen 5G alongside our robust 4G services, we aim to provide more options and an enhanced experience to our users. We are committed to systematically expanding our 5G footprint across Haryana, in line with growing demand and 5G handset adoption.”

To ensure a superior 5G experience in Haryana, Vi has partnered with Nokia to deploy advanced, energy-efficient infrastructure and implemented AI-powered Self-Organizing Networks (SON) to automatically optimize network performance.

Since raising funds via Follow on Public Offer (FPO) last year, Vi has also significantly upgraded its 4G network in Haryana to deliver enhanced coverage, faster data speeds, and overall superior user experience. It has successfully deployed 900 MHz spectrum on 1700+ sites and doubled capacity on 1200+ sites from 5MHz to 10 MHz across key locations like Panipat, Sonipat, Bhiwani Rewari, Palwal, Jind, Sirsa, Hisar, Rohtak, Karnal, Ambala, Kurukshetra, Bahadurgarh and more. In addition, Vi has enhanced 2100 MHz spectrum capacity from 10 MHz to 15 MHz in over 1000 sites in Haryana. Vi has also installed 230+ new sites in the state. These upgrades underscore Vi’s commitment to delivering consistent and high-quality connectivity across urban and rural areas.

Vi remains committed to building a future-ready network that meets the evolving digital needs of consumers and businesses. For more details on availability, pricing, and supported devices, visit: https://www.myvi.in/5g-network

India’s New Telecom Policy (Draft) Targets 100% 4G, 90% 5G, and Global Tech Leadership by 2030

India's Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has just circulated its Draft National Telecom Policy 2025, a bold roadmap to transform the country into a global telecom powerhouse by 2030.

Key Missions of NTP-25

• Universal & Meaningful Connectivity
  • 100% 4G coverage and 90% 5G coverage by 2030
  • Fiber to all Gram Panchayats and 10 crore households
  • 1 million public Wi-Fi hotspots
  • Satellite and non-terrestrial networks for remote areas
• Fostering Innovation
  • India to be among top 10 global innovation hubs
  • 10% global share in 6G-related IPRs
  • 500 telecom-tech startups supported
  • 10 Centres of Excellence and an innovation-focused Section 8 company
• Promoting Domestic Manufacturing
  • 150% increase in domestic output
  • 50% import substitution
  • Telecom Manufacturing Zone and 30 advanced research labs
  • Indian Institute of Telecom Technology (IIT2)
• Secure & Trusted Networks
  • Quantum-resistant cryptography
  • Biometric-based user verification
  • AI-powered cyber threat monitoring
  • National Telecom SafeNet infrastructure
• Ease of Living & Doing Business
  • Simplified compliance and spectrum allocation
  • Infrastructure sharing and regulatory sandboxes
  • Faster grievance redressal and composite electricity billing
• Sustainable Development
  • 30% reduction in carbon footprint
  • 30% of telecom towers powered by renewable energy
  • Integration with Indian Carbon Market and robust e-waste management

Strategic Goals by 2030

Goal	Target
GDP Contribution	Double telecom sector’s share
Investment	₹1 lakh crore annually
Jobs	1 million new jobs
Broadband	100 million homes
R&D	Double public/private spending
Export	Double telecom product exports

Global Vision

• Become a global exporter of telecom technologies
• Shape international standards
• Deploy Indian telecom solutions in at least 10 countries
• Lead under the banner “Bharat – A Telecom Product Nation”

Inside Cisco’s 70% Play in BharatNet—Where Local Meets Global Networking

Cisco has carved out a pivotal role in India’s ambitious BharatNet Phase III project, driving connectivity to 650,000 villages while showcasing how global technology can thrive on local manufacturing. With nearly 70% of the BharatNet infrastructure built using routers manufactured in India, Cisco is delivering not just network speed—but strategic depth.

Daisy Chittilapilly, President (India & SAARC), Cisco, recently announced that it has taken a leading role in India's BharatNet Phase III initiative, deploying nearly 70% of the network infrastructure using locally designed and manufactured routers. This move not only supports India's Digital India vision but also aligns with Cisco's global sustainability and export strategy.

Local Manufacturing, Global Vision

Cisco’s Chennai production facility, developed in partnership with Flex, has emerged as a cornerstone of India's digital infrastructure narrative. By meeting the government’s requirement of at least 50% local value addition on routing hardware, Cisco is powering the digital backbone with Made-in-India routers—yet maintaining the scalability and resilience expected from a global tech giant.

These routers are key components of BharatNet’s IP-MPLS ring topology architecture, designed to provide high-speed, low-latency internet in rural areas. More impressively, they’re ready for export. Cisco estimates around $1.3 billion worth of gear will be produced over two years, serving both domestic and international markets.

The Sustainability–Export Equation

Cisco’s strategy isn’t just about hitting local policy targets. It’s about crafting an intersection of economic development, sustainability, and global competitiveness. Locally manufactured routers reduce carbon footprint and supply chain dependencies, while also enabling India to emerge as a tech hardware exporter in its own right.

By integrating sustainability goals with production scalability, Cisco is turning BharatNet into more than a connectivity mission—it’s a model of green infrastructure development.

Tech That Reaches the Last Mile

With BharatNet’s last-mile delivery built around Wi-Fi hotspots, fiber access, and integration with 4G/5G networks, Cisco’s hardware plays a role that extends beyond the wiring. It’s the glue that binds India’s digital future—from smart villages to e-governance, telemedicine, and online education.

Where Local Meets Global: A Strategic Blueprint

Cisco’s 70% imprint on BharatNet is not merely a statistic—it’s a strategic signal. It shows how multinational firms can align with national priorities, scale local manufacturing, and still meet global sustainability and export ambitions.

As India doubles down on self-reliance in technology, Cisco’s BharatNet involvement could be a blueprint for other sectors—be it MedTech, defense electronics, or AI infrastructure.

Vodafone Teams Up With Scientists for New Light-Powered Chip That Beam Stronger Signals

Ever wondered how your phone magically connects you to the world, even when you're on a moving train or deep inside a shopping mall? It’s all thanks to a complex dance of invisible waves, antennas, and a bit of tech wizardry. But now, Vodafone and scientists at the University of Málaga are taking that magic to the next level—by swapping electricity for light.

Vodafone has recently announced that it is developing an advanced speed-boosting computer chip design that can direct a mobile signal straight to a user’s smartphone using light, in collaboration with the Photonics and Radiofrequency Research Lab - part of the Research Institute of Telecommunications at the University of Málaga (TELMA). 

How Mobile Signals Work Today

Right now, your phone talks to the world using radio waves. When you make a call or stream a video, your phone sends signals to the nearest cell tower, which is part of a vast network of base stations. These towers use electronic chips to process and direct your signal, bouncing it from one tower to another until it reaches its destination.

To make this work smoothly, especially in crowded areas, mobile networks use a technique called beamforming. Think of it like a spotlight that focuses the signal toward your phone instead of blasting it in all directions. This helps reduce interference and improves speed—but it still relies on electricity and traditional hardware.

Enter the Light: Vodafone’s Photonic Leap

Now imagine replacing those electronic chips with ones that use light instead of electricity. That’s exactly what Vodafone and the University of Málaga are doing with their new photonic computer chips.

Vodafone These chips use a technique called optical beamforming, which harnesses the precision of light to steer mobile signals directly to your device. It’s like upgrading from a flashlight to a laser pointer—more focused, more efficient, and far less wasteful.

Two types of chips are in development:

• A passive chip for early testing.
• An active chip that could eventually replace the beamforming tech in today’s radio units, controlling up to 32 antennas on a single mast.

Why It Matters

Representative Image

This light-based approach brings some serious perks:

• Stronger, more stable signals, even in packed stadiums or busy train stations.
• Lower energy use, which is great for both the planet and your phone’s battery.
• Less interference, meaning fewer dropped calls and smoother streaming.

And it’s not just about better phone calls. This tech could power future 5G-Advanced and 6G networks, support autonomous vehicles, and even improve satellite communications.

Backed by the European Commission’s IPCEI program and Spain’s Ministry of Industry and Tourism, the project is still in its early stages. But Vodafone plans to release a blueprint for these chips within two years—a big step toward making light-powered mobile networks a reality.

IIT Hyderabad and WiSig Network’s 5G Innovations Attain Mainstream Paving the Way for 6G at 3GPP Meetings at Prague

• RAN #108, Prague (Jun 2025): Consortium backs India’s π/2-BPSK extension for stronger 5G coverage and to uplink-heavy apps (HD video, XR, on-device AI) while seeding 6G.
• From Lab to Global Standard: Developed at IIT Hyderabad in 2014 → National program → 3GPP 5G Rel-17 feature now used by operators and vendors worldwide.
• Team India + Global Allies: Led by Prof. Kiran Kuchi, Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Hyderabad, with support from Qualcomm, Apple, Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung, MediaTek, DOCOMO, AT&T, Reliance Jio, Thales, and others—backed by DoT, MeitY, DST, and TSDSI.
• Next Stop 6G: IITH & WiSig are already advancing OTFDM and Structural MIMO tech in the new 6G Study Item to power future networks and devices.

At 3GPP TSG RAN #108 in Prague, a global  consortium proposed extending India’s π/2-BPSK uplink waveform to further strengthen 5G coverage and unlock uplink-intensive services—such as high-definition video, immersive XR, and on-device AI—while paving the way for 6G.

Originating in 2014 at IIT Hyderabad as a single-institute effort, the waveform progressed into a national program with leading industry and academic partners, became a 3GPP Release 17 standard, and is now a mainstream 5G feature adopted by operators and vendors worldwide.

Prof. Kiran Kuchi, Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Hyderabad, the driving force behind this success and founder of IIT Hyderabad spin-out WiSig Networks, remarked, “India’s coverage-enhancement technology—created with fellow Indian institutes and global collaborators including Qualcomm, Apple, Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung, MediaTek, DOCOMO, AT&T, Reliance Jio, Thales, and others—has become an integral part of the global standard.”

We gratefully acknowledge the efforts of various organizations of Government of India, i.e. the Department of Telecommunications (DOT), the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Department of Science and Technology (DST), and the Standards Development Organisation, Telecommunications Standards Development Society, India (TSDSI) for their steadfast support in this regard.

Prof. B S Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad, added, “IIT Hyderabad is committed to breakthrough research in the field of Wireless Communications that translates into globally adopted patents and products, propelling India toward Viksit Bharat.”

As the 6G era dawns, IIT Hyderabad and WiSig Networks are already advancing technologies such as the OTFDM waveform and Structural MIMO within the newly approved 6G Study Item. Together with Indian and global partners, we will continue to imagine, invent, and deliver the next generation of communication technologies, networks, and devices.

About IIT Hyderabad:

IITH, established in 2008, has reached a respectable position in Academics, Research, Technology development and Startups in a short span of 16 years. In the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), IITH has bagged at 3rd in Innovation and 8th among Engineering institutes in the last two consecutive years, while it has maintained its rank within top 10 Engineering Institutes ever since NIRF was launched. IITH has been striving for excellence with a motto of "Inventing & Innovating in Technology for Humanity (IITH)".

With 325 full-time Faculty and 5,300+ Students (PG+PhD students accounting for about 60%), IITH has a strong research focus with ~ 4630 Projects worth of Rs. 1510+ Cr of R&D funding (Rs. 335+ Cr funding in 2024-25, i.e., Rs. 1+ Cr per faculty), 11,680+ Publications, 2,15,000+ Citations, 510+ Patents (210+ Patents in 2024 and a commitment to “Patent a Day: Mission 365” for 2025 to earn 365 Patents by the end of 2025), and about 260+ Startups (that have generated 1100+ jobs with a revenue of Rs. 1500+ Cr).

About WiSig Networks Private Limited:

WiSig Networks, a Startup incubated at IITH, is a leading provider of wireless communications solutions, specialising in cutting-edge technologies such as Massive MIMO, 5G ORAN, NB-IoT SOC solutions, Open RAN and advanced 5G/6G technologies, played a crucial role in the integration and seamless operation of equipment throughout the trials. IIT Hyderabad's extensive indoor and outdoor facilities provided an optimal environment for comprehensive real-world wireless testing. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, WiSig is dedicated to shaping the future of Wireless connectivity. www.wisig.com

Modi Govt Mulls Relaxing Make-in-India Rules for Electronics & Telecom Sector

Narendra Modi-led central government is considering a significant shift in its local content policy for electronics and telecom products, potentially lowering the threshold required to qualify as a “Class-I” local supplier under the Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) Order (PPP-MII). This move is being driven by challenges in achieving 50–60% local content due to India’s limited component.

Multinational corporations like Cisco and Ericsson have been lobbying for these changes, arguing that key components such as semiconductors and PCBs are not readily available from Indian suppliers. They’re pushing for design and software work done in India to count more heavily toward local content—even if the intellectual property remains foreign-owned.

Critics, including the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), warn that this could reduce India to a low-value assembly hub, discourage indigenous R&D, and disadvantage domestic firms like Tejas Networks and HFCL that have invested in local manufacturing and IP creation.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has opened a public consultation on the proposed changes, inviting feedback until early July.

Vodafone Idea Launches 5G Commercial Service in Bengaluru with Samsung’s Versatile Solutions

Leading telecom operator Vodafone Idea (Vi) today announced the commercial launch of 5G services by partnering with Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (Samsung) in Bengaluru region, one of the key telecom markets in India and a global IT hub known as the "Silicon Valley of India". Since 2024, the companies have been working together to deploy a new generation, 5G network and modernize Vi's legacy 2G and 4G networks with Samsung's industry-leading solutions in major telecom circles of India including Bihar, Karnataka and Punjab1.

As part of this collaboration, Vi had already launched 5G commercial services in Chandigarh and Patna in April 2025. Vi has successfully deployed Samsung’s small form-factor, energy-efficient and high transmit power radios for enabling a seamless 5G experience across all the three circles. These solutions offer increased cell capacity and energy savings features to deliver better consumer experience with greener and more sustainable approaches for Vi's customers.

For this deployment, Samsung provided its wide range of radios supporting diverse spectrum bands, including 32T32R Massive MIMO radios, along with Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions that encompass baseband and software functions known as the virtualized Central Unit (vCU).

The companies have also implemented the nation's first virtualized Base Station Controller (vBSC), a key network element for 2G services, thereby modernizing its network with cutting-edge software solutions while still ensuring legacy technology and services are supported.

Virtualization of network functionalities enable Vi to streamline network deployment and facilitate easier management, which results in greater efficiency, lower operational costs, better resource allocation control, and increased customer satisfaction. With this virtualization adoption, operators can build software-based and flexible networks more easily, gaining a competitive edge in bringing future networks.

Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer, Vodafone Idea said: “The launch of Vi’s 5G services in Bengaluru as well as Chandigarh and Patna, marks a key step in introducing Samsung as a new partner in our ecosystem and towards delivering seamless, highly reliable next-generation services to our customers. By partnering with Samsung, our endeavor is to offer the best customer experience and provide our customers with enhanced mobile broadband throughputs and high capacity required in today’s digitally connected world.”

Woojune Kim, President and Head of Networks Business at Samsung Electronics said: “India, especially Bengaluru, stands at the forefront of the global digital transformation, and we are proud to accompany Vi’s innovative journey in delivering next-generation connectivity to its customers in one of the world's most dynamic and advanced IT markets. Samsung always thinks a step ahead, anticipating future needs of mobile operators. Through this collaboration, Samsung is fully committed in supporting Vi to satisfy the demands of mobile users and boost enterprise growth with our innovative spirits."

About Vodafone Idea

Vodafone Idea Limited is an Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group partnership. It is amongst India’s leading telecom service providers. The company holds a large spectrum portfolio including mid band 5G spectrum in 17 circles and mmWave spectrum in 16 circles. The Company provides Voice and Data services across 2G, 4G and 5G platforms and is expanding 5G services across 17 circles. To support the growing demand for data and voice, the Company is committed to delivering delightful customer experiences and contributing towards creating a truly ‘Digital India’ by enabling millions of citizens to connect and build a better tomorrow. The Company is developing infrastructure to introduce newer and smarter technologies, making both retail and enterprise customers future ready with innovative offerings, conveniently accessible through an ecosystem of digital channels as well as extensive on-ground presence. The Company’s equity shares are listed on National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the BSE in India.

India Moves Toward Ultra-Secure Telecom: C-DOT & Synergy To Develop Drone-based Secure Communication

Big move for India's quantum-secure communication! The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), the premier telecom R&D institution under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, has recently announced partnership with Synergy Quantum India to develop drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems.

Drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a cutting-edge method for securely transmitting encryption keys using quantum mechanics, but with the added mobility of drones.

This collaboration aims to enhance secure telecom infrastructure using the BB84 protocol with polarization encoding, targeting Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 or higher.

Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 refers to a stage in technology development where a system or prototype has been validated in a relevant environment. This means it has moved beyond basic lab testing and is being tested in conditions that closely resemble real-world applications.

How It Works:

The drone based quantum communication system consists of a drone (left) that generates entangled photon pairs and distributes them to ground stations. From each pair, one photon (purple beam) goes directly to the ground, while the other (pink beam) is relayed through the second drone (right).
[Image - TheQuantumInsider.com] 

1. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) ensures secure communication by using quantum properties to generate encryption keys that cannot be intercepted without detection.
2. Drones act as mobile quantum communication nodes, enabling secure key exchange over long distances, even in areas lacking traditional telecom infrastructure.

The system typically employs the BB84 protocol with polarization encoding, making it resistant to eavesdropping.

Why It Matters:

• Defense & Security: Enables encrypted communication for military and government operations.
• Emergency Response: Provides secure data transmission in disaster zones.
• Mobile Networks: Expands quantum-secure communication beyond fixed fiber-optic setups.

As part of the collaboration, C-DOT and Synergy Quantum will jointly pursue the development of quantum communications technologies optimized for drone-based deployment. The partnership will also include co-creation of research proposals for national and international grant applications and dissemination of outcomes through scholarly publications, white papers, and other platforms.

Key representatives from both organizations may also engage in delivering expert talks, short courses, and organizing symposia, conferences, and meetings on timely research themes.

The initiative aligns with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, fostering indigenous innovation in quantum communication. The QKD systems will be optimized for drone-based deployment, making them valuable for defense, emergency services, and government networks.

C-DOT CEO Rajkumar Upadhyay emphasized the importance of merging public R&D with private innovation, while Synergy Quantum CEO Jay Oberoi highlighted India's potential to lead in drone-based quantum-secure communications.

This partnership could be a game-changer for secure mobile data transmission as it is expected to lay the foundation for next-generation quantum-safe telecom infrastructure, revolutionizing secure data transmission for applications in defence, emergency response, critical infrastructure, and secure government communication.

India Pioneers Open-Source 5G & 6G Platform, Ushering a New Era in Telecom Innovation

India has launched a major initiative to develop a production-grade open-source platform for 5G, 5G Advanced (5G-A), and 6G networks.

This effort is backed by seed funding from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity) and is led by IISc Bengaluru's Foundation for Science Innovation and Development (FSID), IIT Delhi's Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).

The initiative is a unique approach compared to other countries, which have largely relied on proprietary solutions from major telecom vendors.

India is focusing on an open-source mobile network stack, fostering indigenous innovation and reducing reliance on proprietary solutions.

The initiative aims to create a fully open-source mobile network stack aligned with global standards such as 3GPP and Open RAN (O-RAN).

The project builds on the Indian Open-Source Platform for End-to-End 5G Network (IOS-5GN) and lays the foundation for the Indian Open-Source Platform for Mobile Communication Networks (IOS-MCN), a consortium aimed at fostering indigenous innovation across academia, industry, and startups.

A key milestone was achieved on January 31, 2025, when the consortium released IOS-MCN Agartala v0.1.0, which includes a 5G CORE, Open RAN-compliant radio access network software, and a service orchestration framework 12.

The system was successfully tested using Made-in-India ORAN-compliant radio units developed by VVDN and Lekha Wireless, achieving downlink speeds of 600-700 Mbps and latency under 10 milliseconds on commercial mobile devices.

This initiative is a significant step toward self-reliance in next-generation communication technologies, reducing reliance on proprietary solutions and fostering open, scalable, and resilient mobile communication networks.

With 961,000 base stations and 356 cities covered, China leads 5G innovation The country is heavily investing in 6G research.

India's open-source approach is distinct from the vendor-driven models seen in China, the US, and South Korea. While other nations focus on rapid deployment, India is prioritizing self-reliance, scalability, and innovation in mobile communication networks.

Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Cisco to Challenge Modi Govt's Decision to Auction Lower 6GHz Spectrum Band in Court

Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Cisco are considering legal action against the Indian government's decision to auction the lower 6GHz spectrum band for telecom services instead of delicensing it for broader WiFi and AI applications.

Key Points:

1. Auction Decision: The Indian government recently approved the auction of the lower 6GHz spectrum band for use by telecom operators to offer wireless telephony services using technologies like 5G and 6G.
2. Tech Companies' Stance: The tech giants argue that this decision could hinder India's technological growth and economic benefits, as the global trend is to delicense these airwaves for broader applications.
3. Broadband India Forum (BIF): The BIF, representing major tech firms, has been advocating for the delicensing of the 6GHz band, highlighting its importance for data-intensive applications such as AR/VR, gaming streaming, and artificial intelligence.
4. Global Practices: In many countries, including the US, the 6GHz spectrum has been delicensed, allowing non-telecom companies to operate in this band and offer services like WiFi-6.

The tech companies believe that the combined economic benefit of delicensing the 6GHz spectrum and the innovation it would foster would be much higher than the one-off revenue from an auction.

Vodafone Idea & Lionsgate Play Sign Strategic Partnership to Offer Premium Content on Vi Movies & TV

Lionsgate Play will be available with all the Vi Movies & TV subscription plans, for both, existing as well as new customers

Vi, India’s leading telecom operator, announced a strategic partnership with premium streaming service, Lionsgate Play, unlocking an exclusive library of top-tier content. Featuring action blockbusters, iconic franchises, acclaimed films and series, global awards, exclusive premieres, and a range of dubbed content, Lionsgate Play promises an unmatched entertainment experience. This collaboration further expands Vi’s OTT portfolio, providing a premium, diverse library of Hollywood movies, original series, international titles and more at an affordable price.

Vi Movies & TV is designed to cater to the diverse entertainment needs of consumers, via aggregation of the top OTTs through a single app and single subscription offering consumers the convenience to enjoy content from a wide range of OTTs. Users can explore a rich selection of content, ranging from Disney+ Hotstar, SonyLIV, ZEE5 to Fancode for Sports as well as regional content from Sun NXT, ManoramaMax, Nammaflix, Klikk and Chaupal and now the best of Hollywood with its latest addition - Lionsgate Play. It also offers 300+ Live TV Channels including 30+ Live News Channels. All this is available through Vi Movies & TV app available for viewing on Smartphones, Smart TVs as well as Laptops & Tablets.

With Lionsgate Play, Vi Movies & TV users can now enjoy its extensive library of global hits, featuring blockbuster franchises like John Wick, The Hunger Games, and Saw, alongside standout titles such as Past Lives, Tokyo Vice, Paris Has Fallen, Normal People, Operation Fortune, Plane, Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard, The Iron Claw, The Beekeeper, Arcadian, and more. Additionally, users will have access to prestigious award shows like the Primetime Emmy Awards, Golden Globes, Critics’ Choice, and BAFTA Awards, bringing the best of premium, world class entertainment for Vi Movies & TV subscribers.

The partnership with Lionsgate Play is a testament to Vi’s continuing pursuit of innovation and commitment to delivering best-in-class entertainment. By continuously adding renowned platforms like Lionsgate Play to its offerings, Vi reaffirms its dedication to curating a rich and diverse content ecosystem tailored to the evolving tastes and preferences of Indian viewers.

Indus Towers Now A Bharti Airtel Subsidiary As Vodafone Group Made Complete Exit

On December 5, 2024, Vodafone Group shareholders collectively divested their entire stake in Indus Towers, leading to the termination of the shareholders' agreement between Bharti Airtel, Vodafone shareholders, and Indus Towers. This as part of a broader strategy to repay domestic debt and support Vodafone Idea's financial obligations.

As a result, Indus Towers, which is India's largest mobile tower installation company, became a subsidiary of Bharti Airtel in August 2024.

This move marks Vodafone Group's complete exit from Indus Towers, following a previous sale of an 18% stake in June 2024. The divestment was conducted through an accelerated book-build offering, with the proceeds aimed at addressing Vodafone's debt obligations.

This divestment is a significant step in Vodafone Group's strategy to streamline its operations and support its Indian joint venture, Vodafone Idea. The proceeds from the sale were used to repay outstanding borrowings and potentially infuse fresh capital into Vodafone Idea.

Following the divestment, Indus Towers became a subsidiary of Bharti Airtel, which held a 50% equity stake in the company as of September 2024. The stock price of Indus Towers surged by 5% in early trade on the day of the announcement.

One of the largest telecom tower companies in the world, Indus Towers provides telecom coverage across all 22 telecom circles in India, with 219,736 towers and 368,588 co-locations as of March 31, 2024.

Indus Towers offers a range of services including tower operations, power solutions, space solutions, smart cities, and next-gen solutions.

Vodafone Idea Plans Rs 2,000 Crore Fundraising via Equity Shares or Convertible Securities

Vodafone Idea has announced plans to raise Rs 2,000 crore through the issuance of equity shares or convertible securities on a preferential basis to entities within the Vodafone Group. The company's board is scheduled to meet on December 9, 2024, to discuss this proposal.

The funds will help Vodafone Idea address its financial challenges and support its operations.

Vodafone Idea had previously announced a larger fundraising plan of Rs 25,000 crore, but it has been delayed due to issues related to Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) dues.

Vodafone Idea owes Rs 2,03,430 crore to the government as of March 31, 2024. In this, Rs 1,33,110 crore is Deferred Spectrum Payment Obligations and Rs 70,320 crore in AGR Liability.

Following the fundraising announcement, Vodafone Idea's shares saw a slight increase, closing 2.6% higher at Rs 8.42.

The company is also seeking to raise Rs 10,000 crore through debt funding.

Among 22 analysts tracking the company, four maintain a 'buy' rating, five recommend a 'hold,' and 13 suggest 'sell,' according to Bloomberg data.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is considering a proposal to waive bank guarantees for past spectrum auctions, which would primarily benefit Vodafone Idea.

The Supreme Court widened the definition of AGR to include all revenues except termination fee and roaming charges. Recently, the Supreme Court rejected Vodafone Idea's curative petitions to re-compute the AGR dues. The company's financial strain has been exacerbated by the AGR dues, leading to delays in fundraising and network expansion plans.

The government has provided some relief through a four-year moratorium on spectrum and AGR dues, but the financial challenges persist.

BSNL Launches New Generation Over-the-Air (OTA) 4G & 5G-Ready Universal Sim Platform

BSNL has just launched a new 4G and 5G-ready Over-the-Air (OTA) and Universal SIM (USIM) platform. This innovative platform, developed in collaboration with Pyro Holdings, allows subscribers to choose their mobile numbers and replace SIMs without geographical restrictions.

The primary platform was inaugurated in Chandigarh, with a disaster recovery site in Trichy.

Key features include:

• Flexibility in choosing mobile numbers: Subscribers can select their mobile numbers on the fly.
• Geographical freedom: SIM replacements can be done without any geographical limitations.
• Enhanced connectivity: The platform supports both 4G and 5G networks, ensuring high-quality service and connectivity.

This initiative is part of BSNL's broader efforts to upgrade its network and bridge the digital divide, especially in rural and remote areas. The rollout began in Chandigarh, with a disaster recovery site in Trichy.

The Universal SIM (USIM) offers several advantages over traditional SIM cards, especially in the context of modern telecommunications. USIMs provide stronger encryption and authentication mechanisms, making them more secure against hacking and fraud. They are designed to work seamlessly across different network technologies, including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G, ensuring better compatibility and future-proofing.

Additionally, USIMs can receive updates and configurations remotely Over-the-Air (OTA), reducing the need for physical SIM replacements and allowing for quicker deployment of new services.

The OTA USIM platform by BSNL works by leveraging over-the-air technology to manage and update SIM cards remotely. Users can activate and configure their SIM cards without needing a physical SIM swap. This is done through a secure server that sends the necessary data to the user’s device over the air.

The USIM can be used across different regions without needing a new SIM card. This means users can retain their mobile number and services even if they move to a different part of the country.

This move is part of BSNL's effots to enhance connectivity and service quality across India, particularly in rural and remote areas. It's a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and empowering more citizens with advanced telecommunications services.

Canada's Brookfield Gets CCI Clearance to Acquire ATC Telecom

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved Brookfield's acquisition of ATC Telecom Infrastructure. This deal involves Brookfield's infrastructure investment trust, Data Infrastructure Trust, acquiring 100% of ATC Telecom Infrastructure Private Limited. The acquisition was initially announced in January this year.

This approval is part of a series of significant deals recently cleared by the CCI, including other notable transactions in the infrastructure and sustainability sectors.

In a post on X, the CCI on Tuesday said it has approved the "proposed acquisition of 100% of the share capital of ATC Telecom Infrastructure Private Limited by Data Infrastructure Trust and certain inter-connected transactions".

Data Infrastructure Trust (DIT) is an infrastructure investment trust sponsored by an affiliate of Brookfield Asset Management.

This acquisition will make Brookfield the largest telecom tower operator in India, which could lead to further consolidation in the industry. This might result in more efficient operations and potentially lower costs for telecom companies.

With Brookfield’s financial strength, there could be increased investment in telecom infrastructure, improving network quality and coverage. This is crucial for supporting the growing demand for data and the rollout of 5G services.

Notably, ATC previously had significant exposure to Vodafone Idea, which has been struggling financially. However in April, ATC Telecom sold its entire stake in Vodafone Idea to Citigroup Global Markets Mauritius.

To recall, in last month Vodafone Idea issued optionally convertible debentures (OCDs) worth ₹1,600 crore to ATC Telecom Infrastructure, against its pending dues.

The acquisition could intensify competition among telecom tower operators, potentially leading to better services and pricing for telecom companies and, ultimately, consumers.

Vodafone Idea with Asianet Launch Integrated Fiber, Mobility Service in Kerala

Vodafone Idea (Vi) on Wednesday launched its integrated fiber and mobility service in Kerala in partnership with broadband provider Asianet.

This strategic partnership aims to enhance connectivity for users in the region. Asianet's high-speed fibernet technology combined with Vi's broadband plans ensures seamless internet access, catering to various needs. Whether you're browsing casually or handling high-bandwidth tasks, these services offer reliable and fast connections.

Vi One is a bundled service offered by Vodafone Idea (Vi) that combines fiber broadband and prepaid mobile connectivity. Vi One will be available in Kerala at two data speed categories 40MBPS and 100MBPS.

The three-month plan with 40MBPS broadband speed has been priced at Rs 2,499, while the annual plan is available at Rs 9,555. For customers who want faster speed, the three- month 100MBPS plan is priced at Rs 3,399, while the annual plan will cost Rs 12,955.

Vi One includes access to three OTT subscriptions. Users enjoy internet access from 12 midnight to 6 am without deducting data from their daily quota.

The Vi One plans start at ₹2,192, making it an attractive option for users seeking combined broadband and mobile services.

Vodafone Idea Allots 25 Cr Equity Shares to Nokia and 15 Cr to Ericsson, Totaling ₹650 Crore

Vodafone Idea (Vi) has approved the first tranche of allotment of 41,52,02,701 equity shares to Nokia Solutions and Networks India Pvt Ltd (25,67,56,756 Equity Shares) and Ericsson India Pvt Ltd (15,84,45,945 Equity Shares) via a preferential issue.

The issue price is ₹14.80 per share, including a premium of ₹4.80 per equity share. This move clears a portion of their pending dues and strengthens Vi's capital base. Following this allotment, Vi's paid-up share capital stands at ₹684,540,864,730, comprising 68,454,086,473 equity shares with a face value of ₹10 each.

Specifically, Vi allotted 25 crore shares to Nokia and 15 crore shares to Ericsson, resulting in a total value of ₹650 crore. This move likely strengthens the partnerships between these companies in the telecommunications sector.

This is said to be the first tranche of allotment of shares to Nokia and Ericsson. In June, it was reported that Vi aims to raise Rs 2,458 crore through a share sale to these two companies. Nokia will acquire a 1.5% stake in Vi for Rs 1,520 crore and Ericsson will obtain a 0.9% stake for Rs 938 crore. The shares will be allocated on a preferential basis and come with a six-month lock-in period.

By allotting shares to Nokia and Ericsson, Vi strengthens its capital base. This capital infusion can enhance Vi's financial stability and operational capabilities. The funds raised through this issue can be used to repay debt or meet other financial obligations. Reducing debt improves Vi's financial health.

The share allotment reinforces Vi's partnerships with Nokia and Ericsson. These companies play crucial roles in Vi's network infrastructure and technology solutions.

Investors and stakeholders may view this move positively, signaling Vi's commitment to improving its financial position and operational efficiency.