India Takes Center Stage in Global Telecommunications: PM Modi Inaugurates ITU-WTSA and India Mobile Congress
New Delhi – In a significant move for the global telecommunications landscape, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 8th edition of the International Telecommunication Union-World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (ITU-WTSA) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Tuesday. This event not only highlights India’s rapid advancements in telecom and digital technology but also positions the country as a pivotal player on the global stage.
A Dual Celebration: ITU-WTSA and India Mobile Congress
In conjunction with the ITU-WTSA, PM Modi also inaugurated the 8th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC), themed ‘The Future is Now’. This dual celebration underscores India’s commitment to fostering innovation and connectivity in the telecommunications sector. The Prime Minister’s address at the assembly emphasized India’s remarkable growth, stating, “India is one of the most happening countries globally in terms of telecom and related technologies.” With a staggering 1.2 billion mobile users and 950 million internet users, India is a powerhouse, handling over 40% of the world’s real-time digital transactions.
Digital Connectivity: A Tool for Global Good
PM Modi articulated a vision where digital connectivity transcends mere technology, serving as a vital tool for last-mile delivery. He framed the global discussions on telecommunications as an opportunity for collective progress, stating, “Digital connectivity here is not only about technology but also a tool for last-mile delivery.” This perspective aligns with the assembly’s mission of global empowerment through consensus, which Modi linked to the IMC’s focus on connectivity. He emphasized the importance of both consensus and connectivity in today’s conflict-ridden world, drawing on the ancient Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the world is one family.
India’s Leadership on the Global Stage
Highlighting India’s leadership role, PM Modi referenced the recent G20 summit, where India promoted the message of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’. He expressed a commitment to uniting the globe and steering it away from conflict, reinforcing India’s position as a leader in global dialogue and cooperation.
A Telecom Manufacturing Revolution
One of the most striking points made by PM Modi was the transformation of India’s telecom manufacturing landscape. He noted that in 2014, India had only two mobile manufacturing units, whereas today, there are over 200. “Earlier, we imported most of our mobile phones. Today, we manufacture six times more mobile phones than before and are now exporting phones globally,” he stated. This shift not only signifies economic growth but also a move towards self-reliance, with plans to produce entirely ‘Made-in-India’ phones, from chips to finished products.
Addressing Cybersecurity Concerns
Amidst the rapid digital expansion, PM Modi raised concerns regarding cybersecurity, calling for a global digital governance framework. He emphasized the necessity for international cooperation to combat cyber threats, stating, “Technology today transcends borders, and no country can fight cyber threats alone.” He advocated for the establishment of global guidelines to navigate the complexities of the digital age, reinforcing India’s commitment to a safe digital ecosystem through its Data Protection Act and National Cyber Security Strategy.
Rapid Digital Growth and Future Technologies
The Prime Minister highlighted India’s impressive digital growth, noting that the length of optical fiber laid in the country in just a decade is eight times the distance between the Earth and the Moon. He also pointed out that India has become the second-largest 5G market globally, with nearly every district connected, and is already making strides towards 6G technology.
Empowering Women in Technology
In a bid to promote inclusivity, PM Modi underscored initiatives aimed at empowering women in technology leadership. He mentioned the Namo Drone Didi program, which fosters a drone revolution in agriculture led by women in rural areas, and the Bank Sakhi initiative, where women lead digital banking and payments awareness at the grassroots level. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to gender equality in the tech sector.
Integration of Digital Tools in Essential Services
The integration of digital tools in essential services was another focal point of PM Modi’s address. He highlighted how ASHA and Anganwadi workers utilize tablets and apps to track maternity and child care, showcasing the transformative impact of technology in improving public health services.
Conclusion: A Historic Moment for India
Following the inauguration, PM Modi toured the exhibition alongside Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, marking a historic moment as India hosts the ITU-WTSA for the first time in the Asia-Pacific region. This event not only showcases India’s advancements in telecommunications but also its commitment to leading global discussions on connectivity, cybersecurity, and digital empowerment. As the world looks towards the future, India stands ready to play a crucial role in shaping the digital landscape for the betterment of all.