In a historic first for India and the global telecom community, the 3GPP Radio Access Networks (RAN) Working Group meetings – RAN1 through RAN5 – were inaugurated on 25^th August, in Whitefield, Bengaluru. With support from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, and hosted by the Telecommunications Standards Development Society, India (TSDSI), the meetings mark the first time discussions on 6G standardization under 3GPP Release 20, alongside the finalization of Release 19 specifications, which will advance the evolution of 5G Advanced. The meetings will continue through 29th August 2025.

TSDSI Hosts 3GPP RAN Working Group Meetings in Bengaluru

The Department of Telecommunications has extended full institutional and financial support for hosting the event, highlighting the Government of India’s commitment to shaping the future of global communications technology. A DoT delegation is actively participating in the meetings, signalling the government’s sustained engagement in the 6G vision.

TSDSI is the recognized Standards Development Organization (SDO) of India and one of the seven organizational partners of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), the global body responsible for developing specifications for mobile communications technologies, including 5G and 6G. 3GPP specifications form the foundation of global mobile networks, and India’s active participation in these deliberations will further reinforce the country’s growing desire in shaping the future telecommunications technologies.

Over 1,500 delegates from more than 50 countries are participating in Bengaluru meetings, representing 3GPP Individual Members, major telecom companies, research institutions, and technical experts. This is the highest-ever participation in any 3GPP working group meeting, reflecting the significance of these deliberations and the growing global interest in shaping the evolution from 5G to 6G.

The Bengaluru meetings are a landmark opportunity for Indian stakeholders. For the first time, global 3GPP discussions are being held in India, enabling domestic researchers, companies, and academic institutions to participate locally, gain direct exposure, and contribute meaningfully without the constraints of international travel. This inclusive platform will empower Indian organizations to align with global developments in real-time and contribute to 6G standardization efforts.

Bringing 3GPP to India signals a shift in global standard-setting dynamics, where emerging technology leaders like India play an increasingly influential role. The event is expected to spark deeper industry-academia collaboration, promote domestic innovation, and solidify India’s place as a key contributor to the global telecom standards ecosystem.

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Samrat/ Allen