Overview The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) spearheaded the thematic session on ‘Digital Communication’ at the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 , held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from November 03–05, 2025 . This session highlighted India's advancements in telecom innovation and its vision for 6G technology, emphasizing the sector's role in achieving Viksit Bharat 2047 . Key Developments ESTIC 2025: Inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on November 03, 2025 , focusing on sustainable innovation, technological advancement, and empowerment. Digital Communication Session: Led by Dr. Neeraj Mittal , Secretary (Telecom) and Chairman, Digital Communications Commission, on November 05, 2025 . 5G Rollout: India has achieved one of the fastest 5G rollouts globally, with 100 5G labs established across the country to develop use cases. 6G Initiatives: Over 100 R&D projects dedicated to 6G are being supported, focusing on Open RAN, indigenous chipsets, and AI-based intelligent networks. Bharat 6G Alliance: Signed 10 international collaborations , aiming for India to contribute 10% of worldwide 6G patents by 2030 . Keynote and Panel Discussions Keynote Address: Delivered by Prof. Kiran Kumar Kuchi , IIT Hyderabad, on “How to Realise the 6G Vision for Bharat”. Panel Discussion: Moderated by Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay , CEO, C-DOT, focusing on extending the 5G ecosystem and advancing indigenous technologies. Secretary (Telecom)’s Remarks Dr. Neeraj Mittal emphasized that “Telecom has become an enabler not only of the economy but of all technologies which are developing in various disciplines.” He highlighted the transformative power of connectivity and the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, noting that “the sector heralds a new opportunity for all of us to achieve the impossible.” Government’s Approach to Next-Generation Communication The government’s approach is multi-pronged, supporting research and development, encouraging domestic manufacturing, and building strong bridges between academia, industry, and government. The focus is on advancing Open RAN, indigenous chipsets, AI-based intelligent networks, and regulatory sandboxes to foster innovation. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS3: Science and Technology , GS3: Infrastructure , and GS2: Government Policies and Interventions . It highlights India's efforts to advance in the telecom sector and achieve technological self-reliance, aligning with the goals of Viksit Bharat 2047. Important Facts for UPSC ESTIC 2025 Theme: Viksit Bharat 2047 – Pioneering Sustainable Innovation, Technological Advancement, and Empowerment. Bharat 6G Alliance Goal: To contribute 10% of worldwide 6G patents by 2030. Focus Areas: Open RAN, indigenous chipsets, AI-based intelligent networks, and regulatory sandboxes.