India and US to explore technology collaborations

At the G20 Summit in India, US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed various tech-related topics and initiatives to bolster their nations’ ties. They applauded the Bharat 6G Alliance and Next G Alliance’s pact, highlighting secure telecommunications, space exploration and global digital inclusion as common objectives. They also recognised the formation of two Joint Task Forces for Open RAN cooperation and research in 5G/6G technologies. A U.S. Open RAN manufacturer will pilot 5G Open RAN with an Indian telecom operator before full deployment. They look forward to Indian companies participating in the U.S. Rip and Replace Program, and President Biden appreciated India’s support for a Rip and Replace pilot in the United States.

Both leaders recognised the significance of substantial investments from tech companies in India. Microchip Technology, Inc. is set to allocate approximately $300 million towards expanding research and development, while Advanced Micro Devices intends to invest $400 million over the next five years to bolster its operations in India.

Furthermore, they reiterated that technology continues to be a cornerstone of their strategic partnership and are committed to advancing their joint efforts through the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET).