Modernizing the Telecom Framework
The recent amendments to the Telecommunications Act of 2023 aim to modernize India’s telecom infrastructure, addressing previously overlooked sectors such as satellite communications and cybersecurity.
Scindia elaborated, “The telecom sector, much like other growth-critical sectors in India, is aggressive, is ambitious, and its outlook in our journey from Amrit Kaal to Shatabdi Kaal is to lead the world.”
A Global Gathering of Innovators
The India Mobile Congress, organized by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), has attracted significant participation, with over 400 exhibitors, nearly 900 startups, and representatives from more than 120 countries. Approximately 3,200 delegates from over 160 countries are attending the WTSA assembly.
“We are confident that this (WTSA), along with the Indian Mobile Congress in its 8th edition… will serve as a breeding ground for innovation, but also showcase India’s impending but inevitable emergence as a global hub for telecommunications across the world,” Scindia emphasized.
Prime Minister Modi’s Vision
The eighth edition of the annual tech event was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who also opened the WTSA 2024, organized by the International Telecommunication Union, a specialized agency of the United Nations.
Modi stated, “India has democratised digital technology,” highlighting its significance beyond mere connectivity.
“In India, telecommunications goes beyond connectivity — it’s a means of fostering equity and opportunity. A decade ago, when I introduced the Digital India initiative, I emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy,” Modi explained, outlining four pillars: reducing device costs, ensuring nationwide digital connectivity, making data widely accessible, and adopting a ‘digital-first’ approach.
Connecting Consensus and Connectivity
“WTSA focuses on achieving global empowerment through consensus, while the India Mobile Congress aims to empower through enhanced connectivity. The connection between consensus and connectivity has been highlighted at this event,” Modi noted, underscoring the critical roles both play in a world increasingly defined by conflict.
“In the last decade, India has laid optical fibers spanning a distance equivalent to eight times the Earth-moon distance. At the India Mobile Congress two years ago, we introduced 5G, and now, every district in the country has 5G coverage. India has established itself as a 5G market, and we are now making swift progress towards developing 6G technology,” he added.
Scindia echoed this sentiment, stating, “We march with the world in 5G, but we shall lead the world in 6G.” He also projected that 5G could inject an astounding $450 billion into the Indian economy by 2040, emphasizing the impressive pace at which the technology has been deployed.
