The Union Minister of State Dr Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani today addressed the Networking Breakfast on the sidelines of WTDC 25 in Baku, reaffirming India’s longstanding partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a relationship that spans over 150 years.
Highlighting India’s record of concrete action, the Minister noted that India has connected one billion citizens to the internet, built the world’s largest biometric identity system serving 1.4 billion people, and now accounts for over 46 percent of global digital transactions through its unified payments interface, all while ensuring these systems remain open, affordable, and accessible.
Underscoring India’s global contributions, the Union Minister of State emphasized that Indian innovations in digital identity, payments, and governance are supporting countries across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, driven not by commercial interests but by the belief that digital capabilities can and should be shared.
Through its Center of Excellence, India has trained thousands of professionals in spectrum management, cybersecurity, and digital governance, while consistently advocating for equitable spectrum allocation, affordable satellite broadband, and technology transfer that empowers developing nations.
The Union MoS announced India’s candidature for re-election to the ITU Council for the term 2027–2030, stating that India will continue to amplify the priorities of developing nations, champion practical solutions such as technology transfer and capacity-building, and foster consensus across regions.
The Union Minister of State also announced India’s nomination for the Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau, reaffirming India’s resolve to champion innovation-led, future-ready spectrum governance worldwide.
The Union Minister of State concluded by reaffirming that India’s request for support is grounded in consistent action, transparent engagement, and genuine solidarity with nations undergoing digital transformation. India remains committed to working with all Member States to ensure that the benefits of connectivity reach every citizen worldwide.