India Leads the Global Telecom Revolution: PM Modi Reveals How

What role does digital technology play in shaping the future? Can telecom innovation be the key to global progress and connectivity? These are some of the critical questions addressed at the inauguration of the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) 2024 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. With the convergence of global standards and innovative services on a single platform, this event marks a significant milestone for India's digital journey, offering insights into how the country is becoming a global telecom leader.

TICE gets you inside details from this enticing and eventful day! 

India at the Forefront of Global Telecom Standards

In a remarkable event that gathered over 3,000 industry leaders, policymakers, and tech experts from more than 190 countries, PM Modi emphasized India's evolving role in setting global telecom standards. With the inauguration of the 8th edition of India Mobile Congress (IMC), he underscored how India's technological landscape has grown exponentially, now holding the potential to shape the future of telecommunications worldwide.

"Telecom in India is not just a medium of connectivity, but also a tool for equity and opportunity," stated the Prime Minister. He reflected on how the country's digital infrastructure, driven by the four pillars of *Digital India*, has revolutionized the nation's connectivity. From affordable devices to far-reaching internet access, India is bridging gaps between cities and rural areas, rich and poor.

A Telecom Transformation Unlike Any Other

India's digital transformation is a story that the world is keenly observing. From building an expansive optical fiber network, which PM Modi highlighted as eight times the distance between the Earth and the Moon, to adopting 5G technology at record speed, the country is cementing its position as a global leader. In just two years, India has connected nearly every district with 5G, making it the second-largest 5G market globally. And with sights set on 6G, India's future-ready infrastructure is being developed at an unprecedented pace.

Reflecting on this monumental progress, PM Modi stated, "India's telecom journey is a testament to our commitment to inclusion, innovation, and speed. From remote villages to bustling cities, we are connecting every part of the country and ensuring that no one is left behind in this digital revolution. Our success in 5G is just the beginning—India is already preparing to lead the world in 6G, ensuring a robust, future-ready infrastructure that serves everyone."

The Prime Minister also pointed out the country’s success in bringing data costs down. At just 12 cents per GB, India has one of the most affordable internet services worldwide, ensuring that digital technology is accessible to every citizen. With the *JAM Trinity* (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile) and platforms like UPI (Unified Payments Interface), India has created a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and digital commerce, which has far-reaching implications globally.

Women Empowerment and Inclusive Technology

One of the notable highlights of PM Modi's address was his focus on making technology inclusive, particularly for women. India's commitment to women-led development in the technology sector has been evident across initiatives like the Namo Drone Didi and the Bank Sakhi program. He emphasized that women are leading the charge in sectors like agriculture and digital banking, playing a vital role in the country’s digital revolution.

PM Modi remarked, "When women are empowered, the whole nation progresses. Our goal is not just to connect every household but to ensure that women, whether in villages or cities, are at the forefront of this digital transformation. Through technology, we are creating opportunities for them to lead and innovate in fields that were once out of reach."

Moreover, with 40% of women students in India's STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education system, and a growing number of women-led startups, the country is setting a global example. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that India's tech ecosystem will continue to empower women, making them leaders in the digital world.

Shaping a Global Digital Future: The Need for Standards

As the world navigates through rapid technological advancements, PM Modi called for the establishment of a global framework for digital technology. During India's G20 presidency, the need for global governance in the digital space was raised, and the Prime Minister reiterated its importance during the WTSA. He emphasized the need for international collaboration to address challenges like cybersecurity, privacy, and the ethical use of AI.

Highlighting the urgency of this, PM Modi remarked, "In an interconnected world, digital technology knows no borders, and so must our approach to governing it. It is time to create a global framework that ensures technology serves humanity responsibly. This includes safeguarding user data, protecting privacy, and building trust across digital platforms. India stands ready to lead this mission, promoting both innovation and inclusion on a global scale."

Drawing comparisons with the aviation sector, PM Modi stressed the importance of creating a global "do’s and don'ts" for the digital space, urging global institutions to collaborate on setting standards that prioritize security, inclusion, and innovation. India's Data Protection Act and National Cyber Security Strategy reflect the country’s commitment to ensuring a safe digital environment for all.

India's Role in Global Telecom Innovation

India's journey in the telecom and digital sectors is not just a story of innovation but also of inclusion and opportunity. With the successful inauguration of the WTSA and India Mobile Congress, the country is poised to play a key role in shaping the global telecom agenda. Whether it's through creating global standards, empowering women in technology, or making digital services more accessible, India is driving the future of connectivity on a global scale.

Reflecting on this, PM Modi remarked, "India is committed to connecting the world not only through technology but also through shared values of inclusion and equity. Our vision is to ensure that no one is left behind in this digital revolution. Whether it’s building global standards or empowering our people, India will continue to lead the way in creating a future that is both innovative and inclusive."

The event also showcases India’s vibrant innovation ecosystem, with over 400 exhibitors, 900 startups, and participation from 120 countries. As PM Modi concluded, the world’s technological future should be technically strong and ethically sound, with India continuing to lead the way.