Budget 2023: 100 labs to be set up in engineering colleges for developing 5G apps, says Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that 100 labs will be set up in engineering institutes for developing 5G apps and services, during the 2023 budget presentation. The scope of application of these labs would include smart classrooms, intelligent transport systems, precision farming, and others. The labs will be focused on exploring new avenues, business models, and employment opportunities for the students.

The 5G services were launched in the country on October 1, 2022, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for digital transformation and enhanced connectivity. At the time of launch PM Modi unveiled 5G use cases of telecom service providers in education, health, smart agriculture, etc.

Notably, Union telecom minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said in October 2022 that the central government is planning to set up 100 labs for 5G technology. At least 12 of these labs will be used to train students and conduct experiment, the minister said.

In addition to the 5G labs, during the budget announcement, Sitharaman also spoke about job training for youths. Under the Kaushal Vikaas Yojana 4.0, students will be exposed to courses in new-age technologies like artificial intelligence, robotics, 3D printing, and drones, the minister said. About 30 skill India International centers will also be set up in different states of the country.