New Delhi [India]August 22 (ANI): The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has asked the government to launch the Terahertz Experimental Authorisation (THEA), a programme aimed at boosting research and development in the terahertz frequency band.
This frequency band has unique characteristics that could be crucial for next-generation wireless communications technologies, including 6G.
TRAI on Wednesday issued an advisory on terahertz spectrum, following a December 8, 2022 request from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) seeking advice on using unused or barely used spectrum bands in the terahertz range for a limited period to create demand.
“The objective of THEA is to facilitate research and development (RD), indoor and outdoor testing, technology trials, experiments and demonstrations in the range of 95 GHz to 3 THz,” TRAI said.
These recommendations are intended to enable entrepreneurs, start-ups and academic institutions to explore new technologies and applications within this high-frequency spectrum, which holds immense potential in various sectors such as communications, automotive and medical industries.
TRAI has proposed to grant THEA for a period of five years, with the possibility of extending it for another five years, to allow for extensive experimentation and development. Innovators can apply for THEA by paying a nominal fee of Rs 1,000, making it accessible to a wide range of stakeholders.
“Any entity in India (such as academic institutions, R&D laboratories, Central/State governments, public sector undertakings, Union territories, technology parks, telecom service providers, incubators, original equipment manufacturers etc.) should be eligible to obtain THEA,” TRAI said.
The authorization covers multiple frequency bands including 116-123 GHz, 174.8-182 GHz, 185-190 GHz and 244-246 GHz, and contains specific provisions for automotive radar systems in the 77-81 GHz range.
Experts believe that THEA will significantly enhance India’s tech landscape by enabling hands-on experimentation, helping innovators assess the performance and feasibility of their products at a critical development stage. Additionally, THEA will support the “Make in India” initiative.
“The new experimental approval regime recommended by the authorities, if implemented, will give a boost to the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative,” TRAI added.
The launch of THEA is in line with the government’s broader vision to foster a culture of innovation and research in the country.
“Introducing next generation wireless technologies that can be deployed both indoors and outdoors and operate at distances ranging from less than a meter to hundreds of meters, delivering increased capacity and reliability for existing as well as new use cases,” TRAI said.
By encouraging the development of advanced solutions, India aims to enhance its technological capabilities and contribute to global advancements in various industries. With the world turning to radio frequency technologies, THEA is likely to enhance India’s position on the global technology stage. (ANI)
