In Short:
Union telecom and IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw introduced Spectrum Regulatory Sandbox (SRS) and Wireless Test Zones (WiTe Zones) to boost “Make in India” in wireless gear. WiTe Zones allow experimentation in spectrum bands. The process is made easier through a portal and centralised Saral Sanchar Portal for quick permissions. The requirement for Wireless Operating License (WOL) has been revoked. Vaishnaw spoke at the India Mobile Congress 2024 (IMC 2024) and World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly 2024 (WTSA 2024). The focus is on AI, quantum technology, circular economy, 6G, 5G, cloud computing, IoT, etc. A collaboration with Ericsson aims to train 10,000 students on 5G technology in the next two years.
Ashwini Vaishnaw Unveils Spectrum Regulatory Sandbox and WiTe Zones
Exciting news coming in from New Delhi! Union telecom and IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has introduced the Spectrum Regulatory Sandbox (SRS) and Wireless Test Zones (WiTe Zones) with the goal of boosting the ease of doing business and supporting “Make in India” in wireless gear.
What are WiTe Zones?
WiTe Zones are now categorised to allow experimentation in unassigned and assigned spectrum bands. This move aims to foster innovation and growth in the wireless technology sector.
During the announcement, Vaishnaw mentioned, “Under the regulatory sandbox, we will be giving very easy portal-based permissions.” Now, applicants can easily apply through the centralised Saral Sanchar Portal, streamlining the entire permission process.
Wireless Operating License Abolished
In another significant development, the telecom department has done away with the requirement for a Wireless Operating License (WoL) for licensees under section 4 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. This means no separate WoL is needed for setting up telecommunication, including radio equipment.
India to Host IMC 2024 and WTSA 2024
India is gearing up to host the India Mobile Congress 2024 (IMC 2024) and the World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly 2024 (WTSA 2024) in New Delhi.
The IMC, co-hosted by the telecom department and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), will focus on cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence, quantum technology, circular economy, 6G, 5G use-cases, cloud computing, IoT, cybersecurity, and more.
Training Partnership with Ericsson
During the event, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Swedish telecom giant Ericsson inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide accredited courses on 5G.
This collaboration aims to enhance capacity building and skill development in 100 5G use case labs, empowering students and faculties to create innovative 5G products and use cases. The exclusive program includes a three-month accredited course covering key technologies like automation, AI, IoT, and Machine Learning.
This initiative is set to train around 10,000 students in the next two years, paving the way for a future-ready workforce.
