India Hosts the 8th International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly and India Mobile Congress 2024
On October 15, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate two significant events in the realm of telecommunications and digital technology: the 8th edition of the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (ITU-WTSA) and the India Mobile Congress (IMC) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This marks a historic moment as it is the first time that the ITU-WTSA is being hosted in India and the Asia-Pacific region, underscoring India’s growing influence in the global telecommunications landscape.
Significance of the ITU-WTSA
The ITU-WTSA is a pivotal global event that brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and technology experts from over 190 countries. With more than 3,000 participants expected, this assembly will serve as a platform for discussions on the standards that govern emerging technologies such as 6G, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, and cybersecurity. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has emphasized that hosting this event provides India with a unique opportunity to shape the global telecom agenda and influence the trajectory of future technologies.
The discussions at the ITU-WTSA will not only focus on setting standards but will also provide Indian startups and research institutions with critical insights into developing Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and Standard Essential Patents (SEPs). This is particularly important as India seeks to bolster its position as a global technology hub.
India Mobile Congress 2024: A Showcase of Innovation
In conjunction with the ITU-WTSA, the India Mobile Congress 2024 will take place under the theme “The Future is Now.” This event is recognized as Asia’s largest digital technology forum and has become a prominent platform for showcasing innovative solutions and services in the telecom sector. The IMC will feature over 400 exhibitors and 900 startups, with participation from more than 120 countries, highlighting the global interest in India’s burgeoning tech ecosystem.
The IMC will spotlight advancements in various fields, including quantum technology, the circular economy, 6G and 5G use cases, cloud and edge computing, IoT, semiconductors, cybersecurity, green technology, satellite communications, and electronics manufacturing. With over 900 technology use case scenarios and more than 100 sessions planned, the event promises to be a hub of knowledge exchange and collaboration among industry leaders, government officials, and academics.
A Platform for Global Collaboration
Both the ITU-WTSA and the India Mobile Congress are designed to facilitate interactions among key stakeholders in the telecommunications and digital sectors. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the importance of these forums on social media platform X, stating that they bring together leading stakeholders from across the sector. The events will foster discussions that can lead to collaborative efforts in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by rapidly evolving technologies.
The participation of over 600 global and Indian speakers will further enrich the dialogue, providing diverse perspectives on the future of telecommunications and digital technologies. This collaborative environment is essential for driving innovation and ensuring that the benefits of technology are accessible to all.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the ITU-WTSA and the India Mobile Congress 2024 represents a significant milestone for India in the global telecommunications arena. As the country steps into the spotlight, it not only showcases its capabilities but also positions itself as a key player in shaping the future of technology. With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and standardization, these events are set to pave the way for advancements that will impact industries and societies worldwide. As the theme of the IMC suggests, the future is indeed now, and India is ready to lead the charge.