January 8, 2025 – AI Touch LLP has been awarded funding under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme of the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), now rebranded as Digital Bharat Nidhi. This initiative, led by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), aims to bolster India’s telecom sector through innovation and indigenous technology development.
Project Overview
AI Touch will design and develop components for a disaggregated 5G Radio Access Network (RAN), including:
- RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC): Enabling AI/ML-based network optimization.
- Service Management and Orchestration (SMO): Facilitating cross-domain orchestration.
- Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF): Delivering actionable insights for improved decision-making.
The platform will integrate these modules to achieve intelligent and automated control of RAN and Core nodes using AI/ML-powered applications. A key feature will include a sample application for managing user experience during congestion scenarios and interfaces for onboarding third-party applications.
Technological Objectives
The project focuses on:
- Closed-Loop Automation: Leveraging AI/ML to automate network operations dynamically.
- Enhanced Network Automation: Integrating Non-Real-Time RIC, Near-Real-Time RIC, SMO, and NWDAF for seamless operations.
- Operational Efficiency: Reducing complexities and operational costs for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).
- Indigenous Development: Strengthening India’s 5G telecom ecosystem by fostering homegrown innovations.
Key Statements
- Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, CEO of C-DOT, the project’s implementation partner, emphasized,
“C-DOT will ensure the project adheres to the highest technological standards. Collaborations like this enable the development of indigenous solutions that will enhance India’s telecom ecosystem.” - Dr. Parag Agarwal, Deputy Director General (DDG) of TTDF, highlighted,
“Through the TTDF scheme, we are fostering innovation in India’s telecom sector. AI Touch’s project will drive AI-driven advancements and lay the foundation for a self-reliant 5G ecosystem.” - Amit Gupta, Partner at AI Touch, added,
“Our focus is on leveraging AI and ML to create predictive models and automation frameworks within RIC and NWDAF. This platform will address complex network challenges with precision and efficiency.”
Expected Impact
The project is poised to:
- Reduce Operational Complexities: Streamline 5G network management for MNOs.
- Improve Cost Efficiency: Optimize resource utilization for telecom operators.
- Enable New Applications: Support advanced applications in network optimization and analytics.
- Boost Indigenous 5G Ecosystem: Foster technological self-reliance in India.
Supervision and Timeline
The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) will oversee the project’s execution, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to quality standards.
This initiative marks a significant step toward building a self-reliant 5G ecosystem, laying the groundwork for future advancements in India’s telecom sector.
