Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the 8th edition of the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (ITU-WTSA) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi today.
This prestigious event marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time the ITU-WTSA will be hosted in India and the entire Asia-Pacific region.
The ITU-WTSA, a flagship global event, will gather over 3,000 industry leaders, policymakers, and tech experts from more than 190 countries. It is a vital platform where experts from the telecommunications, digital, and ICT sectors will convene to discuss the future of telecommunications and standardization for cutting-edge technologies.
The event will also address the emerging global telecom standards related to futuristic technologies, including 6G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, and Cybersecurity. The discussions will have a direct impact on how the world adopts and regulates these technologies, influencing both the industry and government policies.
In a tweet on X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Modi announced both events, stating:
“At 10 AM tomorrow, 15th October, the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly and the India Mobile Congress 2024 will be inaugurated. These forums are important ones, bringing together leading stakeholders from across the sector.”
Hosting the ITU-WTSA in India provides the country with a golden opportunity to shape the global telecom landscape. India will play a pivotal role in setting the agenda for next-generation technologies, as highlighted by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO):
“Hosting this event in India will provide the country an opportunity to play a key role in shaping the global telecom agenda and to set the course for future technologies. Indian startups and research institutions are set to gain critical insights into developing Intellectual Property Rights and Standard Essential Patents.”
This move is expected to boost India's position as a key player in global telecommunications, and further reinforce the country’s strides in technology-driven solutions.
Alongside the ITU-WTSA, Prime Minister Modi will also inaugurate the 8th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC). This year’s IMC theme, “The Future is Now,” aptly reflects the event's focus on innovative solutions that are driving the next era of telecommunications.
India Mobile Congress is Asia’s largest digital technology forum and a leading platform globally for showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovations in the telecom ecosystem. This year, the IMC will feature:
Over 400 exhibitors showcasing their latest products and technologies.
More than 900 startups participating from across the globe.
Representatives from over 120 countries discussing breakthroughs in Quantum Technology, Circular Economy, 6G, 5G innovations, Cloud and Edge Computing, IoT, Semiconductors, Cybersecurity, Green Technology, Satellite Communication (Satcom), and Electronics Manufacturing.
The IMC 2024 will provide a glimpse into the future of telecommunications, offering a platform for telecom companies to display advancements in 5G and 6G technology. This forum will host more than 100 discussions featuring over 600 global and Indian speakers, with over 900 technology use-case scenarios on display.
India Mobile Congress 2024 serves as a prominent platform for:
Startups: Gaining access to new investors and mentors.
Telecom companies: Demonstrating new solutions and interacting with global leaders.
Academics: Showcasing innovations and research.
Government representatives: Understanding the latest developments to guide policy-making.
The collaboration between industry leaders, policymakers, and tech innovators is expected to provide critical insights that will help India and other participating nations move forward on their digital journeys, enhancing global connectivity, economic growth, and the adoption of new-age technologies.
Both events reflect India’s growing influence in the global technology ecosystem. With Prime Minister Modi’s continuous push for digital advancement through initiatives like Digital India and Make in India, India has become a significant hub for innovation, R&D, and telecommunications solutions. Hosting these events in India also signals the country’s emerging status as a global technology leader.
The ITU-WTSA and India Mobile Congress 2024 are set to be defining moments for India’s role in the global telecommunications ecosystem. Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in championing digital initiatives has propelled the country to the forefront of technological advancement.
These two events will not only strengthen India's influence in setting global technology standards but also serve as a catalyst for the country’s burgeoning tech industry.
The participation of global leaders, innovators, and experts will further pave the way for critical conversations around the future of telecommunications, AI, 6G, and much more. As India continues to rise as a global tech powerhouse, these events showcase its immense potential to shape the next wave of technological evolution.