Government clears Rs 500 crore under TTDF for 120 telecom R&D projects

Since its October 2022 launch, the TTDF, administered by Digital Bharat Nidhi, has sanctioned ₹499.6 crore for 120 telecom innovation projects, disbursed ₹187 crore, and attracted 1,340+ proposals from startups, academia, and research institutions

The Centre has sanctioned close to ₹500 crore under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) to foster research and development in next-generation telecom technologies, including 5G, 6G, secure chipsets, and quantum communications. The fund, launched in October 2022 and administered by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), aims to build domestic capabilities in critical telecom infrastructure and innovation.

Union Minister of State for Communications, Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, highlighted the fund’s progress in a recent review, noting that ₹499.6 crore has been approved for 120 projects across diverse technology domains. Of this, around ₹187 crore has already been disbursed. The TTDF has received over 1,340 proposals since its inception, reflecting strong interest from academia, startups, and research institutions.

At the review meeting, the minister reportedly emphasized the importance of delivering tangible outcomes from public funding in R&D. He proposed clearer timelines, better project monitoring, and enhanced coordination between evaluation committees to fast-track approvals. Greater participation from industry experts and private equity professionals was also suggested to enhance the quality and relevance of funded projects.

The review followed the TTDF Symposium 2025, held at IIT Madras Research Park between June 19 and 21. During the event, 112 projects were reviewed across 12 verticals by more than 40 mentors, highlighting the government’s intent to closely track and guide ongoing innovations.

To encourage wider participation from early-stage ventures and MSMEs, the minister recommended easing the entry process and simplifying scheme guidelines. Monthly performance reviews at the ministerial level were also proposed to maintain momentum and ensure timely course corrections.

The TTDF initiative is central to India’s ambition of achieving self-reliance in telecom technology. By enabling homegrown solutions for future communication challenges, the fund is expected to drive innovation, boost domestic manufacturing, and enhance the country’s position in the global digital economy.