The 8th Edition of Indian Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024: A Glimpse into the Future of Telecom, Media, and Technology

The Indian Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024, Asia’s largest telecom, media, and technology forum, is currently underway, showcasing the future of digital connectivity and innovation. Jointly organized by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), this year’s event has garnered participation from over 120 countries, making it a significant global platform for dialogue and collaboration in the tech space. Inaugurated by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, IMC 2024 is taking place concurrently with the ITU-WTSA, further amplifying its importance on the international stage.

Day 2 Highlights: A Focus on Futuristic Technologies

The second day of IMC 2024 kicked off with a breakfast meeting led by Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Hon’ble Minister of Communications and Development of the Northeastern Region. The theme, "Leading in the Moment: The Future is Now," set the tone for a day filled with discussions on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) across various sectors and the transformative potential of emerging technologies.

Inauguration of the International 6G Symposium

A key highlight of Day 2 was the inauguration of the International 6G Symposium by Minister Scindia. He emphasized India’s ambition to lead global 6G innovation, building on the success of its rapid 5G rollout. The Minister underscored the importance of creating inclusive, accessible, and affordable standards for 6G, while also addressing the critical need for cybersecurity in this evolving landscape. India’s proactive approach positions it as a significant player in shaping the future of telecommunications.

Launch of the Telecom Smart Cities Index

Another significant event was the launch of the Telecom Smart Cities Index by Opensignal, which assessed the digital readiness of 50 Indian cities. The index highlighted cities such as Srinagar, Agra, Faridabad, Jaipur, and Patna as leaders in mobile infrastructure, showcasing their preparedness for smart city transformations through robust 4G/5G availability and consistent quality of service.

Workshop with Academicians of 5G Test Labs

The day also featured a workshop with academicians from 5G test labs, focusing on enhancing indigenous 5G networks and exploring enterprise private networks. Discussions revolved around industrial use cases for 5G, including applications in healthcare, agriculture, and education, demonstrating the vast potential of 5G technology in various sectors.

Engaging Sessions and Panels

IMC 2024’s second day was packed with over 100 sessions covering a wide array of topics. Key discussions included:

• Supercharging India through Equitable AI
• Securing the Digital Realm: Enhancing Cyber Defense
• Satellite Communication: The Pulse of a Digital Nation
• Decarbonizing for a Sustainable Digital Future

These sessions provided valuable insights into the transformative impact of AI and emerging technologies on industries such as telecommunications, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.

Voices from Industry Leaders

The event featured notable quotes from key industry leaders, reflecting on the current state and future of technology in India:

• Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary, DoT, stated, “India is becoming a focal point for global innovation in technologies. The IMC and the ITU-WTSA are crucial in showcasing products and driving collaboration.”

• D. Sridhar Babu, IT Minister, Telangana, highlighted the state’s commitment to becoming an AI powerhouse, emphasizing the development of an AI-ready ecosystem.

• Lt. Gen. Dr. S.P. Kochhar, DG, COAI, discussed the need for policies that adapt to the rapid advancements in technology, advocating for public-private partnerships to navigate the complexities of modern telecommunications.

• Erik Ekudden, CTO, Ericsson, noted the potential for significant growth in mobile technology adoption in India, predicting millions of households connecting to 5G in the coming years.

Concurrent International Conferences

In addition to IMC 2024, India is also hosting the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly New Delhi 2024 (WTSA 2024) and the Global Standards Symposium (GSS 2024) from October 14-24, 2024, at Pragati Maidan. These events further solidify India’s role as a leader in global telecommunications standards and innovation.

Conclusion: A Platform for Innovation and Collaboration

The Indian Mobile Congress 2024 has established itself as a premier platform for showcasing innovative solutions and fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders, government entities, and academia. With over 400 exhibitors, 900 startups, and participation from more than 120 countries, IMC 2024 is not just a conference; it is a celebration of the future of technology and its potential to transform lives.

As the event continues, it promises to unveil more groundbreaking innovations and discussions that will shape the digital landscape of India and beyond. The insights shared and the collaborations formed during IMC 2024 will undoubtedly pave the way for a more connected, innovative, and inclusive future.