PM Modi inaugurates 8th ITU-WTSA, showcases India’s telecom revolution

For the first time, the ITU-WTSA is hosted in India and the Asia-Pacific

Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the 8th International Telecommunication Union-World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (ITU-WTSA) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Tuesday, highlighting India’s rapid advancements in telecom and digital technology. The Prime Minister also launched the 8th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC), themed “The Future is Now.”

In his address to the assembly, PM Modi asserted, “India is one of the most dynamic countries in terms of telecom and related technologies, boasting 1.2 billion mobile users and 950 million internet users. We manage over 40 percent of the world’s real-time digital transactions.”

He emphasized that digital connectivity serves as more than just technology; it is a vital tool for last-mile delivery, turning the global discourse on telecommunications into an opportunity for collective benefit.

Connecting the missions of the WTSA and IMC, PM Modi stated, “While WTSA focuses on global empowerment through consensus, the India Mobile Congress is centered on connectivity. In today’s conflict-ridden world, both consensus and connectivity are essential. India, guided by the principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family), is committed to leading by example.”

Highlighting India’s role on the global stage, the Prime Minister referenced the recent G20 Summit, where India promoted the vision of “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” advocating for global connectivity to overcome conflict.

PM Modi also drew attention to India’s telecom manufacturing revolution, noting a dramatic increase from just two mobile manufacturing units in 2014 to over 200 today. “We previously imported most mobile phones; now we produce six times more and are exporting globally. We are progressing towards producing entirely ‘Made-in-India‘ phones, from chips to finished products, backed by substantial investments in semiconductors,” he said.

Amid rising cyber threats, the Prime Minister called for a comprehensive global digital governance framework, stating, “The time has come for global institutions to recognize the need for a framework that governs technology and protects citizens. Technology transcends borders, and no country can combat cyber threats alone. We must collaboratively establish global guidelines for the digital age.”

He underscored India’s Data Protection Act and National Cyber Security Strategy as testaments to the country’s commitment to creating a secure digital environment.

Noting the country’s impressive digital growth, PM Modi remarked that in just a decade, the length of optical fiber laid in India has expanded eight times the distance between the Earth and the Moon. “Since launching 5G services two years ago, nearly every district in India is now connected, making us the second-largest 5G market globally, with rapid advancements towards 6G technology,” he added.

The Prime Minister also emphasized efforts to enhance opportunities for women in technology leadership, citing initiatives like the Namo Drone Didi program, which empowers women in rural areas through drone technology in agriculture, and the Bank Sakhi initiative which promotes digital banking awareness at the grassroots level.

In healthcare, he highlighted how ASHA and Anganwadi workers utilize tablets and apps to monitor maternity and child care, showcasing the integration of digital tools into essential services.

Following the inauguration, PM Modi toured the exhibition alongside Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. This event marks the first time India and the Asia-Pacific region have hosted the ITU-WTSA, reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in telecommunications.

For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.

The post PM Modi inaugurates 8th ITU-WTSA, showcases India’s telecom revolution appeared first on PGurus.