India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024: A New Era in Telecommunications
On a momentous day for India’s telecommunications landscape, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 8th edition of the International Telecommunication Union’s World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (ITU-WTSA) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. This landmark event marks the first time that India and the Asia-Pacific region are hosting the prestigious assembly, a significant milestone that underscores the country’s growing influence in the global telecom sector.
A Historic Inauguration
The inauguration ceremony was a grand affair, with PM Modi unveiling a digital plaque to commemorate the assembly. Following this, he toured the exhibition alongside Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, exploring the latest innovations and technologies on display. The event not only highlights India’s advancements in telecommunications but also sets the stage for the upcoming India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024, which promises to be a pivotal gathering for industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators.
India’s Mobile Manufacturing Revolution
During his address, PM Modi emphasized the remarkable progress India has made in mobile manufacturing. He noted that the country now boasts over 200 smartphone production facilities, a staggering increase from just two in 2014. “Earlier, we used to import smartphones from abroad. Now, we manufacture six times more mobile phones in India,” he stated, showcasing the nation’s transformation into a global manufacturing hub.
This shift not only reflects India’s capabilities in technology and manufacturing but also highlights the government’s commitment to fostering a self-reliant economy. The Prime Minister’s remarks resonate with the broader ‘Make in India’ initiative, which aims to position India as a manufacturing powerhouse.
Commitment to ‘Made-In-India’ Phones
PM Modi further elaborated on India’s ambitions in the semiconductor space, expressing a strong commitment to producing ‘Made-in-India’ smartphones from the ground up. “From chips to the finished product, we are looking to give the world a made-in-India phone. We are also investing in the semiconductor ecosystem as well,” he affirmed. This commitment is crucial as semiconductors are the backbone of modern electronics, and enhancing domestic production will reduce dependency on imports.
Connecting WTSA and IMC 2024
In his address, Modi made a compelling connection between the WTSA and the upcoming India Mobile Congress, which is set to take place soon under the theme "The Future is Now." He underscored the importance of "consensus" and "connectivity" in today’s interconnected world, emphasizing that both events aim to empower nations and foster collaboration in the telecommunications sector.
Reflecting on India’s digital journey, Modi revisited the four pillars of Digital India that he introduced a decade ago: affordable devices, comprehensive digital connectivity, accessible data, and a ‘digital-first’ mindset. He highlighted how the telecom sector is not just about connectivity but also about driving equity and opportunity across the nation.
What to Expect from WTSA & IMC 2024
The ITU-WTSA event is poised to focus on establishing global standards for emerging technologies, including 6G, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, and cybersecurity. By hosting this event, India has the opportunity to shape global telecom policies, providing a platform for Indian startups and research institutions to gain insights into intellectual property and patent development.
The India Mobile Congress 2024, recognized as Asia’s largest digital technology platform, will showcase a plethora of advancements in telecommunications. With over 400 exhibitors and 900 startups from more than 120 countries participating, the IMC will feature around 900 technology use cases. Attendees can look forward to more than 100 sessions led by over 600 global and Indian speakers, making it a hub of knowledge and innovation.
Conclusion
The India Mobile Congress 2024, alongside the ITU-WTSA, represents a significant leap forward for India in the global telecommunications arena. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and self-reliance, these events are set to redefine the future of technology in India and beyond. As the world looks to India for leadership in telecommunications, the stage is set for a transformative journey that promises to empower millions and drive sustainable growth in the digital age.