India's ambitions for a self-reliant 5G ecosystem take a significant leap forward, with AI Touch LLP awarded funding under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme, administered by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). The project, backed by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), aims to develop an advanced AI-driven platform for disaggregated 5G Radio Access Network (RAN). This initiative integrates critical components such as the RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC), Service Management and Orchestration (SMO), and Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF), signifying a milestone in India’s telecom innovation landscape.

AI and 5G: A Synergistic Transformation

The AI-powered platform will feature an AI/ML intent engine for intelligent and automated RAN and Core network node control. It will implement closed-loop automation to address network congestion scenarios and improve user experience through advanced analytics. The project also aims to provide interfaces for onboarding third-party applications, facilitating a scalable and dynamic ecosystem.

This initiative underscores the pivotal role of AI in optimizing 5G networks:

• RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC): AI/ML applications within Non-Real-Time RIC and Near-Real-Time RIC modules will enable real-time network optimization.
• Service Management and Orchestration (SMO): Facilitates cross-domain orchestration, ensuring seamless integration across network components.
• Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF): This function provides actionable insights and predictive analytics to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.
• Indigenous Innovation: Laying the Groundwork for Atmanirbhar Bharat

The project aligns with India’s Digital Bharat Nidhi (formerly USOF) objectives, promoting the development of indigenous telecom solutions. By integrating cutting-edge AI capabilities, AI Touch’s platform will reduce operational complexities for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), enhance cost efficiency, and provide new opportunities for application development in the telecom sector.

Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, CEO of C-DOT, emphasized the importance of such collaborations, stating, “This project represents a critical step in strengthening India’s telecom ecosystem through indigenous solutions.” Dr Parag Agarwal, DDG of TTDF, reinforced this vision by highlighting the project’s potential to foster innovation and lay the foundation for a self-reliant 5G network infrastructure.

Driving Operational Efficiency and User Experience

The integration of AI/ML-powered tools into the 5G RAN architecture will enable:

• Predictive and Proactive Network Management: AI algorithms will predict and resolve congestion issues, ensuring a superior user experience.
• Enhanced Resource Allocation: Real-time analytics from NWDAF will optimize resource distribution, improving network performance and reliability.
• Streamlined Operations: Closed-loop automation and cross-domain orchestration will significantly reduce manual intervention, lowering operational costs.

Amit Gupta, Partner at AI Touch, emphasized the company’s commitment to leveraging AI to tackle complex network challenges, ensuring the platform’s adaptability and precision in addressing the demands of a rapidly evolving telecom environment.

India’s Path to a 5G-Driven Future

As India continues its journey toward becoming a global leader in 5G and AI-driven technologies, this project represents a cornerstone for innovation. It advances the "Make in India" vision and positions the country as a hub for scalable, cutting-edge telecom solutions. The initiative paves the way for sustainable and inclusive growth in India’s telecom sector by fostering indigenous innovation and addressing critical operational challenges.

The success of this project will mark a significant milestone in India's telecom narrative, reinforcing its position as a global player in the 5G ecosystem. It will also serve as a blueprint for future collaborations between AI-driven technologies and next-generation networks, ensuring India’s leadership in the digital era.

Source: PIB

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