India and the United Kingdom on Friday announced the launch of the India-UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre, marking a major step forward in strengthening bilateral cooperation in digital technology, telecommunications, and secure communications.
The landmark initiative aims to advance digital inclusion and shape the future of secure, innovative, and resilient communications between the two nations. The Centre will bring together the complementary strengths of India and the UK in advanced connectivity – linking cutting-edge university research with lab testing, field trials, and pathways for market deployment.
Over the next four years – a critical phase for shaping the technological and commercial contours of 6G – the Centre will focus on three strategic areas:
Transforming Telecom with AI: Using advanced artificial intelligence tools to optimise networks, enhance efficiency, and enable new digital services.
Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs): Developing satellite and airborne systems to deliver high-speed, reliable connectivity to rural and remote regions.
Telecoms Cybersecurity: Strengthening network resilience through open, interoperable, and secure communication systems for businesses and consumers.
Both nations have jointly committed an initial £24 million (approximately ₹250 crore) over four years to drive the initiative. The funding will support applied research through collaborations between academic and industry partners, establishment of joint testbeds, and participation in global standards development for emerging telecommunications technologies.
Officials said the initiative will serve as a flagship example of the UK–India Research and Innovation Corridor in action, underlining the shared ambition outlined in the India–UK 2035 Vision. It will be implemented under the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, jointly delivered by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
By uniting innovation ecosystems across both nations, the India-UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre is expected to generate new commercial opportunities, enhance cyber resilience, and support the creation of secure and inclusive digital economies.