World Telecommunication and Information Society Day

Why World Telecommunication and Information Society Day in news?

On May 17, 2024, India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) commemorated World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, aligning with the global theme of “Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development.”
This day holds significant importance, marking the anniversary of the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) founding in 1865, when the first International Telegraph Convention was signed in Paris.
The theme for this year resonates deeply with India’s ongoing journey towards a robust digital economy.
The DoT, along with its premier research and development arm, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), is actively promoting initiatives to bridge the digital divide and harness the power of technological innovation for sustainable growth.

The 17th of May serves as a reminder of the remarkable progress made in communication technologies.

From the humble beginnings of the telegraph to the interconnected world of the internet, communication has become an indispensable part of our lives.
India’s telecom sector itself is a testament to this progress. As of August 2023, India boasts the world’s second-largest telecom industry with a subscriber base exceeding 1.179 billion (encompassing both wireless and wireline subscribers).
This vast network is the backbone of India’s burgeoning digital economy, projected to reach a staggering USD 1.5 billion by 2025-26, contributing a substantial 15% to the country’s GDP. The DoT’s focus on “Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development” underscores the critical role technology plays in driving economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental well-being.

C-DOT, the DoT’s premier R&D center, plays a pivotal role in nurturing innovation within the Indian telecom sector.
This year’s World Telecommunication and Information Society Day witnessed the exciting launch of two special initiatives by C-DOT: NIDHI and the STAR Program.
NIDHI, an acronym for ” nurturing ideas for development and harnessing innovation,” aims to stimulate the development of indigenous telecom solutions and technologies.
This program offers a much-needed platform for Indian researchers and entrepreneurs to translate their ideas into reality, fostering self-reliance in the telecom sector.
The STAR Program (Student Technology Assistance and Research) takes a future-oriented approach. It provides scholarships and mentorship support from C-DOT’s research leaders to PhD students.
By nurturing young talent, the STAR program invests in building a skilled workforce equipped to tackle the evolving challenges and opportunities of the digital landscape.

The Indian government’s focus on digital innovation aligns perfectly with the ITU’s vision of an information society that empowers individuals, communities, and nations.
Initiatives like NIDHI and the STAR program demonstrate a commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and building a skilled workforce.
As India strives towards a more inclusive and sustainable future, bridging the digital divide remains a crucial challenge.
Continued investment in infrastructure development, digital literacy programs, and affordable access will be paramount in ensuring everyone benefits from the transformative power of technology.
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day serves as a timely reminder of the immense potential that lies in harnessing the power of digital innovation.
By working together, governments, industries, and educational institutions can pave the way for a more connected and sustainable future for all.