BSNL Teams Up with Nokia, Qualcomm, Cisco to Build 5G and AI Innovation Hub

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. (BSNL) took a monumental step toward India’s digital future by signing landmark agreements with global technology giants Nokia, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Ericsson on Monday. The partnerships, formalized in the presence of Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, aim to transform BSNL’s Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT) in Jabalpur into a cutting-edge Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC).

The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Skill India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, focusing on creating a future-ready workforce skilled in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), networking, and cybersecurity. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) envisions the TIRTC as a hub for telecom-specific research and development (R&D), fostering innovation, prototyping, and entrepreneurship to position India as a global leader in digital technology.

Under the agreements, Nokia, Qualcomm Technologies, and Ericsson India will establish specialized centers at BRBRAITT dedicated to 5G and AI/ML training. These centers will offer advanced, industry-relevant programs to equip young professionals with skills critical to the evolving telecom landscape. Cisco Systems will contribute through its globally recognized Networking Academy Program, providing training in networking, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure. The combined efforts aim to bridge the digital skills gap, ensuring India’s workforce is prepared for the demands of next-generation technologies.

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Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister Scindia hailed the partnerships as a “game-changer for India’s telecom ecosystem.” He emphasized the synergy between government and industry, stating, “We are two sides of the same coin, working together to empower our youth and drive technological self-reliance.” Scindia highlighted that the TIRTC will not only train professionals but also support the development of indigenous telecom products, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Jabalpur institute is poised to become a beacon of technological advancement, with plans to support startups and incubate telecom-focused innovations. The DoT aims to leverage these collaborations to create a robust pipeline of R&D talent, enabling India to compete in the global telecom market. The partnerships also underscore BSNL’s renewed focus on revitalizing its role in India’s digital transformation, moving beyond traditional telecom services to embrace cutting-edge technologies.

Industry leaders expressed enthusiasm for the initiative. A spokesperson for Qualcomm Technologies noted, “Our collaboration with BSNL will empower the next generation of innovators to harness 5G and AI for transformative solutions.” Similarly, Nokia emphasized its commitment to building a scalable training ecosystem, while Cisco highlighted the potential of its Networking Academy to enhance cybersecurity expertise.

The establishment of the TIRTC comes at a critical time as India accelerates its 5G rollout and aims to strengthen its digital infrastructure. With these partnerships, BSNL is positioning itself as a key player in shaping a self-reliant, tech-driven future, empowering millions of young Indians to lead the charge in global innovation.

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