PM Inaugurates 8th Edition of India Mobile Congress: A Leap Towards Digital Empowerment

On a momentous occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 8th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC) alongside the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) 2024 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This dual event marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in telecommunications and digital technology.

A Vision for Connectivity and Opportunity

In his address, PM Modi emphasized that India has transformed telecommunications from merely a medium of connectivity to a powerful tool for equity and opportunity. He articulated a vision where digital technology bridges the gap between urban and rural areas, rich and poor, thereby fostering inclusivity. "We identified four pillars of Digital India and started working on all four pillars simultaneously, and we got results," he stated, highlighting the government’s holistic approach to digital empowerment.

The four pillars of Digital India, as outlined by the Prime Minister, include low-priced devices, extensive digital connectivity, accessible data, and a ‘Digital First’ approach. This comprehensive strategy has led to remarkable achievements, including a mobile phone user base of 1.2 billion and nearly 950 million internet users in the country.

Transformative Achievements in Connectivity

The Prime Minister underscored India’s impressive advancements in telecommunications infrastructure. He noted that in just a decade, India has laid down optical fiber equivalent to eight times the distance between the Earth and the Moon. This extensive network has enabled connectivity in remote tribal, hilly, and border areas, ensuring that every household has access to mobile services.

Moreover, the rapid rollout of 5G technology has positioned India as the world’s second-largest 5G market, with nearly every district now connected. PM Modi also mentioned the country’s proactive steps towards 6G technology, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of technological advancements.

Democratizing Digital Technology

PM Modi highlighted the democratization of digital technology in India, which has created a plethora of opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship. He pointed to the transformative power of the JAM Trinity—Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile—as a foundation for countless innovations. The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) are prime examples of how digital platforms have revolutionized commerce and financial transactions in the country.

The Prime Minister also reflected on the role of digital technology during the COVID-19 pandemic, which facilitated seamless communication, financial transfers, and the vaccination drive. He expressed India’s willingness to share its digital public infrastructure experience globally, emphasizing that India’s digital bouquet can elevate welfare schemes worldwide.

Empowering Women Through Technology

A significant aspect of PM Modi’s address was the emphasis on women’s empowerment through technology. He noted that India is committed to making the technology sector inclusive, with initiatives aimed at empowering women through various technology platforms. The Prime Minister highlighted the increasing participation of women in STEM education and their crucial roles in India’s space missions and startup ecosystem.

Programs like the Namo Drone Didi initiative and Bank Sakhi are paving the way for women in rural areas to engage with technology, thereby enhancing digital awareness and economic opportunities. PM Modi expressed hope that every daughter of India would emerge as a tech leader in the future.

A Call for Global Cooperation in Digital Governance

In a world increasingly reliant on digital technologies, PM Modi stressed the need for a global framework for digital governance. He urged global institutions to recognize the importance of establishing guidelines for technology use, emphasizing that security should not be an afterthought. Drawing parallels with the aviation sector, he called for proactive measures to create a secure digital ecosystem.

The Prime Minister’s vision for a human-centric technological revolution underscores the importance of responsible innovation. He advocated for standards that prioritize security, dignity, and equity, ensuring that no country or community is left behind in the digital transformation.

Conclusion: A Future of Innovation and Inclusion

As the 8th edition of the India Mobile Congress unfolds, it serves as a testament to India’s commitment to becoming a global leader in telecommunications and digital technology. With over 400 exhibitors, 900 startups, and participation from more than 120 countries, the IMC is poised to showcase India’s innovation ecosystem and set the stage for future technological advancements.

The Prime Minister’s address encapsulated a vision of a future where technology is not only a driver of economic growth but also a means of fostering inclusivity and equity. As India continues to pave the way for digital empowerment, the world watches with anticipation, ready to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.