Study Group — Networks (SG-Networks)
Developing standards for network architecture, 5G/6G systems, spectrum efficiency, and India-specific network requirements.
Scope & Mandate
The Study Group on Networks (SG-Networks) is responsible for developing TSDSI's standards and technical specifications related to network infrastructure, radio access technologies, core network evolution, and next-generation network architectures.
A key focus area is India's contribution to IMT-2020 (5G) and IMT-2030 (6G), including the LMLC (Low Mobility Large Cell) proposal which addresses India's unique rural connectivity requirements. SG-Networks coordinates directly with 3GPP and ITU-R on behalf of India.
The group meets quarterly (or more frequently when required) and conducts its work through a combination of in-person and virtual meetings, with contributions from member organizations across India.
Quick Facts
Working Groups
Radio Access Networks
- IMT-2020/2030 (5G/6G) standards
- LMLC — Low Mobility Large Cell
- Spectrum efficiency techniques
- Massive MIMO and beamforming
- NR (New Radio) transpositions
- Satellite-terrestrial integration
Core Networks & Architecture
- 5G Core (5GC) architecture
- Network slicing standards
- Service Based Architecture (SBA)
- Edge computing integration
- Network function virtualization
- Cloud-native network functions
Transport & Optical Networks
- Fronthaul/Midhaul/Backhaul standards
- Optical transport networks
- Microwave backhaul optimization
- Packet-optical convergence
- India-specific transport requirements
Network Management & Operations
- O-RAN standards alignment
- Network automation
- AI/ML in network operations
- Self-organizing networks
- Quality of Service standards
- Energy efficiency standards
Key Technical Contributions
LMLC for 5G
India's LMLC (Low Mobility Large Cell) proposal for IMT-2020 — addressing rural and suburban coverage with cost-effective large cells. Accepted by ITU-R for IMT-2020.
6G Vision
Contribution to India's IMT-2030 (6G) vision document covering India-specific use cases, requirements for rural broadband, multilingual AI interfaces, and sustainable networks.
3GPP Transpositions
Transposition of 1,657+ 3GPP specifications as TSDSI national standards, making global mobile standards accessible to Indian industry and regulators.
Spectrum Standards
Development of Indian spectrum usage standards aligned with National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP), including recommendations for 5G mid-band and mmWave bands.
O-RAN Alignment
Studying O-RAN (Open Radio Access Network) architecture for India context — supporting Make in India telecom equipment goals through open standards.
Green Networks
Study on energy efficiency standards for Indian telecom networks, targeting significant reduction in network carbon footprint through intelligent power management.
Recent Meetings
| Meeting | Date | Location | Documents | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG-N #28 | March 2025 | Virtual / New Delhi | 14 TDs, 8 CRs | Completed |
| SG-N #27 | December 2024 | IIT Delhi, New Delhi | 11 TDs, 5 CRs | Completed |
| SG-N #26 | September 2024 | Hyderabad | 9 TDs, 6 CRs | Completed |
| SG-N #25 | June 2024 | Virtual | 12 TDs, 4 CRs | Completed |
Contribute to SG-Networks
TSDSI members can actively participate in SG-Networks meetings, submit technical contributions, and shape India's network standards. Contact the secretariat to get involved.