India has worked to make our future technically strong, ethically strong and one which champions both innovation and inclusion. pic.twitter.com/FpVSFoxhMr
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 15, 2024
Batting for inclusivity in technology, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on the world of telecom and Internet to develop a global ecosystem that does not leave behind anyone, and provides not just connectivity, but modes for equality and opportunity.
“Our future has to be technically strong and ethically sound. In our future, innovation should be there, so should be inclusive,” said PM Modi.
India has made the world of technology inclusive. At the same time, it has leveraged the power of technology to further women empowerment. This can be seen across sectors in India. pic.twitter.com/bLzYwNOuMI
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 15, 2024
The prime minister was speaking at the joint inaugural ceremony of the World Telecommunications Standardisation Assembly, as well as the India Mobile Congress. It is the first time that the global telecom body that decides on standards and framework for the operation of new telecom technologies is meeting in India.
The PM called on the world body to take a leaf out of India’s own inspirational track record in inclusivity through the Digital India mission, which he himself had set in motion ten years ago.
India's strides in the world of telecom are a global case study. For us, this sector is not merely about connectivity - it is as much about equity and opportunity. We have emphasised on a 'Digital First' approach which has led to substantial benefits. pic.twitter.com/ixl6xMXDv8
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 15, 2024
“World looked at mobile and telecom as a mode of convenience. India’s model was different — we didn’t look at telecom not as a mode of connectivity, but a mode for equity and opportunity,” Modi said, describing how the four pillars of Digital India were formulated — Device cost had to come down, Digital connectivity should reach all corners, Data should be affordable to all, and Digital first should be the aim.
Of this, Modi elucidated on how the first point led to ‘Make in India’ at first, and then the whole ‘Vocal for Local’ and PLI schemes originated. “Phones couldn’t have become cheaper unless we started making them in India. From 2 makers in 2014 to 200 manufacturing units, from being an importer, today we’re known as a mobile exporter!”, he said.
PM Modi also focused on cybersecurity, pointing out how India has come up with the Data Protection Act as well as a national cyber security strategy. “Telecom has to be safe for everyone. In this interconnected world, security should not be an afterthought,” he said, calling on the Standardisation Assembly to “Create a standard that is inclusive, accessible and is adaptable to all future challenges.”
“Create standards for rthical AI and data privacy that is adjustable with cultures of different parts of the world. No nation, region or community should be left behind in this technological age,” the PM said.
