As 5G paves the way for technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous vehicles, and smart cities, development of core components positions India at the forefront of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
In a significant move towards advancing India’s telecom technology landscape, AI Touch LLP has secured funding under the Department of Telecommunications’ (DoT) Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme, now part of the “Digital Bharat Nidhi” initiative. This grant will enable AI Touch to develop key components for disaggregated 5G Radio Access Network (RAN), including the RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC), Service Management and Orchestration (SMO), and Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) modules. These cutting-edge components are integral to enhancing 5G network performance and automation, which are central to the growth of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
The project aims to create a unified platform that integrates SMO, RIC, and NWDAF with an AI/ML-powered intent engine. This platform will enable intelligent, automated control of RAN and Core nodes through AI/ML-based applications and closed-loop automation, streamlining network operations. The platform is expected to improve user experience during congestion, manage network complexities more effectively, and provide seamless integration for third-party applications. The RIC modules will utilize AI and ML for network optimization, SMO will enhance cross-domain orchestration, and NWDAF will offer actionable insights through data analytics, resulting in a more efficient and responsive 5G network.
Utility and Benefits of Key Components for Disaggregated 5G RAN (RIC, SMO, NWDAF)
The development of key components for disaggregated 5G RAN, including the RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC), Service Management and Orchestration (SMO), and Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) modules, is critical for unlocking the full potential of 5G networks. These components, powered by AI and machine learning, offer several key benefits:
- RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC): The RIC will serve as the brain of the network, enabling AI/ML-driven network optimization and improving the efficiency of resource allocation across the network. By providing real-time network insights, the RIC will automate network operations, making it possible to proactively address network challenges and optimize performance.
- Service Management and Orchestration (SMO): The SMO will play a pivotal role in enabling cross-domain orchestration, ensuring smooth and seamless management of network services across different segments. It will automate the configuration and management of resources, reducing the complexity of network operations and ensuring efficient service delivery.
- Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF): The NWDAF will provide deep data analytics capabilities, offering actionable insights that will help network operators make informed decisions. By analyzing network performance in real-time, NWDAF will contribute to better planning, optimization, and troubleshooting, helping operators enhance user experience and network quality.
Together, these components will not only optimize the operational efficiency of the 5G network but will also pave the way for the development of new AI-driven applications and services, improving the overall performance and user experience.
Key Benefits of AI-Driven 5G RAN Platform in Leading 4IR
- Enhanced Network Automation: With the integration of RIC, SMO, and NWDAF, AI Touch’s platform will usher in next-level automation, enabling real-time decision-making and predictive capabilities. This AI/ML-driven framework will reduce human intervention and operational complexities, a crucial step towards efficient telecom network management.
- Improved Operational Efficiency: By leveraging AI and ML technologies, the platform will not only optimize network operations but also reduce the operational costs for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). This will allow telecom companies to provide better services at lower costs, benefiting both service providers and end consumers.
- Future-Proofing 5G Infrastructure: The development of a disaggregated 5G RAN, driven by cutting-edge AI/ML components, will contribute to the establishment of a self-reliant 5G ecosystem in India. This is particularly important as the global telecom sector moves toward 5G and beyond, and India seeks to become a hub for telecom innovation and manufacturing.
- Smart Telecom Applications: With the capabilities of SMO and RIC modules, the platform will enable the development and deployment of new AI-powered applications. From predictive maintenance to dynamic traffic management, these applications will enhance network efficiency and provide superior customer experiences, especially during peak usage periods like congestion scenarios.
- Support for National Telecom Goals: As part of the Department of Telecommunications’ broader vision for a self-reliant telecom ecosystem, AI Touch’s project plays a critical role in achieving India’s goal of establishing a robust, AI-powered 5G infrastructure. This will bolster India’s position as a global leader in telecom technology, contributing to the Digital India initiative and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
- Job Creation and Skill Development: The project is expected to create a range of new opportunities in the fields of telecom innovation, AI, and machine learning. Additionally, it will foster skill development in these advanced technologies, empowering India’s workforce for the future.
Shaping the Future of 5G and Beyond
AI Touch’s project is a critical stepping stone towards achieving India’s 5G aspirations and will play a key role in the transition to a digitally empowered nation. By integrating AI/ML-powered automation in 5G networks, the project will not only improve efficiency but also provide scalability for future advancements in telecom technologies. As 5G paves the way for technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous vehicles, and smart cities, AI Touch’s development of these core components positions India at the forefront of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The support from DoT’s TTDF and the collaboration with C-DOT ensures that India’s telecom sector will stay on track for self-reliance and global leadership in advanced technology solutions. By developing indigenous capabilities in 5G network management, AI Touch is helping lay the groundwork for the next generation of telecom networks and the industries they support.
In conclusion, AI Touch’s project is not just about enhancing 5G networks; it is about shaping India’s future in the global telecom arena. With AI-driven innovation at its core, this initiative will empower industries, streamline telecom operations, and accelerate the rollout of smart technologies, leading the way for India to emerge as a strong player in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
