About the Sub-centre

Established on 25th July 2024 at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) Gandhinagar Campus, this Centre of Excellence is dedicated to advancing research in telecom network security for 5G and emerging 6G technologies. Located at Gujarat's premier forensic sciences institution, the sub-centre combines expertise in digital forensics, network security, and telecommunications to address critical security challenges in next-generation networks.

The centre focuses on exploring the evolving 5G/6G security landscape, developing protection frameworks for digital and telecommunications networks, and imparting specialized knowledge on IoT and industrial automation security. With a strong alignment to strategic national security objectives, the sub-centre plays a pivotal role in safeguarding India's critical telecommunications infrastructure against sophisticated cyber threats.

Research Focus Areas

5G/6G Security Landscape
Comprehensive research on security vulnerabilities, threat vectors, and mitigation strategies specific to 5G and emerging 6G network architectures.

IoT & Industrial Automation Security
Developing security frameworks for IoT ecosystems and industrial automation systems operating over 5G networks, ensuring resilience against cyber attacks.

Cyber-Physical Systems Protection
Research on integrated systems combining computational and physical elements, with focus on protecting critical infrastructure and industrial control systems.

National Security Alignment
Telecom research aligned with strategic national security objectives, including secure communication protocols and critical infrastructure protection.

Key Achievements & Activities

Workshop on "5G Security" - February 5, 2025
Successfully organized a comprehensive one-day workshop focused on emerging threats and mitigation strategies in 5G networks. This high-impact event brought together leading experts from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and IIT Gandhinagar, showcasing strong government-academic collaboration.

• Expert presentations on 5G security architecture and threat landscape
• Interactive sessions on vulnerability assessment and penetration testing
• Case studies on real-world 5G security incidents and responses
• Discussion on future research directions in 5G/6G security
• Networking opportunities for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers

Industry-Aligned Certificate Programs (April - September 2025)

Ericsson Educate Program
Focus: 5G, IoT & Industrial Automation
Comprehensive program enabling practical understanding of 5G technologies, IoT ecosystems, and industrial automation applications. Participants gained hands-on experience with Ericsson's industry-leading technologies and solutions.

Qualcomm Academy
Focus: Fundamentals of 5G Architecture and Security
In-depth course covering 5G network architecture, security protocols, and implementation challenges. Aligned with Qualcomm's industry expertise in mobile communications and chipset technologies.

Practical Exposure & Hands-on Learning

• Hands-on laboratories for 5G security testing and vulnerability assessment
• Real-world use cases and industry problem-solving scenarios
• Interactive simulations of network attacks and defense mechanisms
• Project-based learning with industry mentorship
• Access to cutting-edge tools and technologies for security research

Advanced 5G/6G Security Workshops

• Network Slicing Security
• Edge Computing Security
• AI/ML in Network Security
• 6G Security Preparedness

Academic Partnerships & Collaborations

Government Collaborations

• Department of Telecommunications (DoT)
• National Security agencies
• Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
• Digital India initiatives

Academic Partnerships

• IIT Gandhinagar
• Other NFSU campuses
• International universities

Industry Collaborations

• Ericsson
• Qualcomm
• Indian telecom operators
• Cybersecurity firms

Infrastructure & Facilities

• Advanced 5G security testing laboratory with commercial-grade equipment
• Network simulation and emulation environment
• IoT security testbed
• Cyber-physical systems research facility
• Digital forensics laboratory
• Secure collaboration spaces
• Training facilities
• Access to NFSU infrastructure

Capacity Building & Training

Professional Training Programs

• Certificate courses in 5G/6G network security
• Training for law enforcement
• Workshops for telecom professionals
• Executive programs for policymakers

Student Programs

• M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs
• Internships
• Research assistantships
• Hackathons

Impact & National Contributions

• Advancing research in 5G/6G network security
• Developing indigenous solutions
• Building skilled workforce
• Supporting policy development
• Protecting critical infrastructure
• Fostering collaboration
• International standards contribution