New Delhi Hosts the 8th International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA)
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 8th edition of the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This landmark event marks a significant milestone as it is the first time that the ITU-WTSA has been hosted in India and the Asia-Pacific region. The assembly is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of telecommunications and digital standards globally.
A Historic Inauguration
The inauguration ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, who accompanied the Prime Minister as he inspected the exhibition at the venue. The WTSA serves as a platform for member states and industry stakeholders to discuss and establish global telecommunication standards, making it a pivotal event for the future of technology and communication.
The Significance of the Event
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of the WTSA and the concurrent India Mobile Congress (IMC) in his announcement on social media platform X. He stated, “At 10 AM tomorrow, 15th October, the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly and the India Mobile Congress 2024 will be inaugurated. These forums are important, bringing together leading stakeholders from across the sector.” The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) highlighted that the event would facilitate interactions among over 3,000 industry leaders, policymakers, and tech experts from more than 190 countries.
Shaping the Future of Technology
The ITU-WTSA is not just a gathering; it is a critical forum for discussing standards related to emerging technologies such as 6G, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, and cybersecurity. Hosting this event in India provides the country with a unique opportunity to influence the global telecom agenda and set the course for future technological advancements. Indian startups and research institutions are expected to gain valuable insights into developing Intellectual Property Rights and Standard Essential Patents, which are crucial for innovation and competitiveness in the global market.
Spotlight on the India Mobile Congress 2024
In conjunction with the WTSA, Prime Minister Modi will also inaugurate the 8th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC), themed “The Future is Now.” The IMC has established itself as Asia’s largest digital technology forum, showcasing the telecom ecosystem and highlighting advancements in various fields, including quantum technology, the circular economy, and next-generation telecommunications like 6G and 5G.
The IMC will feature over 400 exhibitors and 900 startups, with participation from more than 120 countries. Attendees can expect to see more than 900 technology use-case scenarios, engage in over 100 sessions, and listen to discussions featuring over 600 global and Indian speakers. This diverse representation underscores the IMC’s role as a global platform for showcasing innovative solutions and services across the technology and telecom sectors.
A Platform for Collaboration and Innovation
The IMC serves as a vital meeting point for industry leaders, government officials, academia, and startups, fostering collaboration and innovation. By bringing together key stakeholders, the event aims to facilitate discussions on the latest trends and challenges in the telecom and digital sectors, paving the way for future advancements.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the ITU-WTSA and the India Mobile Congress 2024 in New Delhi marks a significant moment for India on the global telecommunications stage. As the country takes on a leadership role in shaping the future of technology and communication, the insights and collaborations fostered during these events will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the global telecom landscape. With a focus on innovation, standards, and collaboration, India is poised to play a pivotal role in the evolution of telecommunications and digital technology in the years to come.