The Call for a Global Digital Framework: Insights from Prime Minister Narendra Modi at WTSA 2024
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a compelling address at the inauguration of the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly (WTSA) 2024 and the India Mobile Congress at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. His remarks underscored the urgent need for a global framework governing digital technology and the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing that security must be a primary consideration in our interconnected world.
The Imperative of Security in a Digital Age
In his speech, Modi drew parallels between the digital landscape and the aviation sector, which has long operated under established safety frameworks. He articulated a clear message: “In an interconnected world, security cannot be an afterthought.” This statement reflects a growing recognition that as digital tools and applications transcend borders, the risks associated with cyber threats also multiply. Modi pointed to India’s Data Protection Act and National Cyber Security Strategy as evidence of the country’s commitment to fostering a secure digital environment.
Establishing Inclusive and Adaptive Standards
The Prime Minister urged the assembly members to focus on creating standards that are not only secure but also inclusive and adaptable to future challenges. He highlighted the importance of ethical AI and data privacy standards that respect the diversity of nations. Modi’s call for a global “Do’s and Don’ts” for technology resonates with the need for international collaboration in combating cyber threats. He emphasized that collective action by global institutions is essential to address the borderless nature of digital tools.
The Human-Centric Approach to Technological Innovation
Modi stressed the importance of a human-centric dimension in the ongoing technological revolution. He called for responsible and sustainable innovation, asserting that the standards set today will shape the future. “Our goal should be that no country, no region, and no community is left behind in this digital transformation,” he stated. This vision underscores the necessity of balancing innovation with inclusion, ensuring that technological advancements benefit all segments of society.
India’s Digital Achievements: A Model for the World
In his address, Modi highlighted India’s remarkable achievements in the digital realm. With a mobile phone user base of 1.2 billion and nearly 950 million internet users, India has become a global leader in digital transactions, accounting for over 40% of real-time transactions worldwide. He noted that digital connectivity has proven to be an effective tool for last-mile delivery, showcasing how technology can bridge gaps in access and opportunity.
The Journey Towards 5G and Beyond
Modi also discussed India’s rapid adoption of 5G technology, which was launched two years ago and has since connected nearly every district in the country. This achievement positions India as the world’s second-largest 5G market. Furthermore, he mentioned that the country is already making strides towards 6G technology, ensuring that its infrastructure remains future-ready.
The Four Pillars of Digital India
The Prime Minister outlined the four pillars of ‘Digital India’: low-priced devices, extensive reach of digital connectivity, easily accessible data, and a ‘digital first’ approach. These pillars have been developed concurrently, leading to significant advancements in connectivity and telecom reforms. Modi emphasized that telecom in India is not merely a medium of connectivity but a vehicle for equity and opportunity.
Transformative Connectivity Initiatives
Modi pointed to the transformative achievements in connectivity, including the installation of thousands of mobile towers across remote and underserved areas. He highlighted the rapid deployment of Wi-Fi facilities in public spaces and the connection of islands like Andaman-Nicobar and Lakshadweep through undersea cables. “In just 10 years, India has laid optical fiber which is eight times the distance between Earth and the Moon,” he remarked, illustrating the scale of India’s infrastructure development.
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future
Prime Minister Modi’s address at WTSA 2024 serves as a clarion call for global cooperation in establishing a secure and inclusive digital ecosystem. His emphasis on ethical standards, human-centric innovation, and the need for collective action resonates deeply in today’s interconnected world. As nations grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by digital technology, Modi’s vision for a collaborative approach to governance and security will be crucial in shaping a future where no one is left behind in the digital transformation.