PM Modi Launches 8th Edition of ITU-WTSA to Highlight Global Telecom Innovations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 8th edition of the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Tuesday. This marks the first time India and the Asia-Pacific region have hosted the ITU-WTSA.

Following the inauguration, Modi inspected the exhibition alongside Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. He also announced the opening of the 8th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC), themed “The Future is Now.”

In a post on X earlier in the day, Modi stated, “At 10 AM tomorrow, 15th October, the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly and the India Mobile Congress 2024 will be inaugurated. These forums are vital for bringing together leading stakeholders from across the sector,” according to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

The event is expected to facilitate interactions among industry leaders, policymakers, and tech experts from over 190 countries, gathering more than 3,000 participants from the telecom, digital, and ICT sectors. Discussions will focus on setting standards for emerging technologies such as 6G, AI, IoT, Big Data, and cybersecurity. The PMO noted that hosting the event in India will allow the country to play a significant role in shaping the global telecom agenda and the future of technology, benefiting Indian startups and research institutions in developing Intellectual Property Rights and Standard Essential Patents.

The India Mobile Congress 2024 will showcase the telecom ecosystem, featuring leading companies that will highlight advancements in quantum technology, the circular economy, and showcase use cases for 6G and 5G, along with cloud and edge computing, IoT, semiconductors, cybersecurity, green technology, satellite communications, and electronics manufacturing.

As Asia’s largest digital technology forum, the IMC has become a prominent platform for showcasing innovative solutions and services. This year’s event will include over 400 exhibitors, 900 startups, and participation from more than 120 countries. Attendees can look forward to over 900 technology use-case demonstrations, 100 sessions, and discussions featuring more than 600 global and Indian speakers.