India’s Minister of State for Communications, Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, recently met with the UK’s Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for AI and Online Safety, Kanishka Narayan. The meeting highlighted the deepening cooperation between India and the UK in telecommunications, digital innovation, and emerging technologies. Chandra Sekhar emphasized the importance of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of telecommunications, aiming to set global standards in AI-native networks, Open RAN, and 6G by leveraging India’s scale and the UK’s research strengths.
The discussion also touched upon India’s National Quantum Mission, emphasizing the potential for collaboration in quantum communications and secure networks. Progress under the DoT–DCMS MoU was reviewed, with both sides welcoming the operationalization of the India–UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre endorsed at the India Mobile Congress 2025. The focus was on enhancing cooperation in AI applications for telecom networks, including autonomous network management, AI-driven cybersecurity, spectrum innovation, and non-terrestrial networks.
India and the UK exchanged insights on combating telecom fraud and digital scams through artificial intelligence tools. India highlighted initiatives such as the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) and AI-based anti-spam tools deployed by Telecom Service Providers (TSPs). The UK shared its approach involving open data frameworks and deterrence-based regulatory measures. Additionally, India sought the UK’s support for key multilateral engagements at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and emphasized its commitment to global telecom governance and standardization.
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to strengthen institutional engagement and develop secure, trusted digital infrastructure in both countries.
