New Delhi, May 27 -- Research and development (R&D) on new telecom technologies will be a key focus area in the draft five-year National Telecom Policy 2025-2030, according to policy draft seen by Mint.

The Centre government is targeting spends of Rs.1,000 crore per year-compared to just Rs.400 crore in FY26-to support research in new technologies like 5G/6G, quantum communications, blockchain, and satellite communication, as part of the upcoming policy.

The policy, currently in draft stage, will be notified soon by the department of telecommunications (DoT), an official said on the condition of anonymity.

An improvement in R&D spends will help the country reduce its dependence on telecom equipment imports. However, going by previous y...