India has joined the United States and 24 other countries in a global initiative focused on the development of next-generation 6G telecommunications networks. The US Department of Commerce announced India’s participation as countries look to coordinate their approach to 6G, with a focus on network security, competitiveness and technological innovation.
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The move follows a meeting between Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada and US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on the sidelines of the G20 Innovation Ministerial in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
India joins global 6G effort
The US Department of Commerce said the initiative is intended to ensure that next-generation networks reflect shared security interests while supporting competitiveness and innovation in 6G. The initiative brings India into a wider group of countries working together on the future of wireless connectivity. The discussions are taking place well ahead of the expected transition from 5G to 6G, which is generally expected to gather pace in the 2030s.
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For India, the move also fits with its broader push to play a greater role in 6G research, technology development and global standards through the Bharat 6G Mission.
India-US talks cover 6G, AI and semiconductors
The 6G announcement came after Prasada and Lutnick discussed the future of telecommunications and the need for greater international cooperation. Their talks also covered semiconductors, artificial intelligence and data centres. Prasada raised the possibility of greater US investment under India Semiconductor Mission 2.0 and discussed ways to strengthen the India-US partnership in AI.
The two sides also discussed safeguards for AI as both countries continue to expand cooperation across emerging technologies. Prasada described semiconductors, AI and data centres as key building blocks of the emerging digital economy and said the discussions explored opportunities for deeper practical cooperation between India and the US.
G20 Innovation Ministerial focuses on emerging technologies
Prasada led the Indian delegation at the G20 Innovation Ministers’ Meeting in Chapel Hill. The meeting was hosted by the US Department of Commerce and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.
The ministerial meeting concluded with the G20 Innovation Ministerial Statement, which recognised the role emerging technologies can play in increasing productivity, expanding opportunities and supporting economic growth.
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The statement covered areas including pro-innovation policies, technology-led economic opportunities, workforce development, AI and intellectual property, AI standards, and industrial innovation and investment in supply chains.
India looks to expand global technology partnerships
India used the G20 meeting to underline its interest in building stronger international partnerships across AI, semiconductors, digital public infrastructure, robotics and other emerging technologies. The government said these partnerships are aimed at converting technological advances into opportunities for innovation, economic growth and better quality of life.
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India’s participation in the global 6G initiative adds another layer to this technology push. As countries begin discussing the architecture, standards and security requirements for future networks, India’s involvement gives it an opportunity to contribute to the direction of the technology before large-scale 6G deployment begins.
Indrani Priyadarshini is a journalist and editorial professional specialising in technology, artificial intelligence, smart cities, green energy, and digital transformation. With over four years of experience in tech journalism and digital media, she is known for turning complex industry developments into clear, engaging, and insightful stories. Her expertise spans reporting, editorial strategy, digital publishing workflows, and in-depth coverage of emerging technologies shaping the future.
