With Global Collaboration in Focus, WTSA 2024 Addresses the Urgency of Digital Inclusion
Advitya Bahl
The India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024 was a significant event as it hosted the 8th World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) for the first time in India and the Asia-Pacific region. The discussions emphasised the pressing need for strong data security and ethical standards in our increasingly digital world. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, while inaugurating the event, called for global guidelines on ethical AI and data privacy, highlighting the urgency of protecting users, akin to the strict safety measures in the aviation industry.
India's achievements in telecommunications were also a focal point, with the Prime Minister noting the remarkably low cost of mobile data and the extensive fiber optic network that has enabled wide-spread 5G connectivity. This infra-structure not only supports economic growth but also enhances access to information and services for millions. There was a consensus among stakeholders that the future of technology must prioritise fairness and inclusivity, ensuring that advancements benefit all segments of society. This focus on ethical development and accessibility is crucial as India aims to be a leader in the global digital landscape.
The AI Focus
A key highlight of this year's India Mobile Congress (IMC) was the significant emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI), with over 750 AI-based use cases showcased among 900 total technology scenarios presented by diverse tech companies, startups, and educational institutions. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's engagement with innovative firms like Signalchip and Wisig Networks, along with women-led initiatives such as Astrome and Easiofy Solutions, under-scores India's emerging leadership in technological innovation.
The applications of AI presented ranged from enhancing operational efficiency and safety to automating hazardous tasks. For example, AI-powered virtual agents are streamlining workloads in contact centers, while advanced AI systems for railway safety are capable of detecting unusual activities on tracks and issuing alerts. Bharti Airtel's introduction of India's first AI-powered spam detection solution not only improves user experience by reducing unwanted calls but also highlights the growing integration of AI into everyday telecommunications.
In the healthcare sector, notable advancements were showcased, particularly by Vodafone Idea, which demonstrated the transmission of real-time diagnostic reports over high-speed networks. This innovation facilitates remote consultations and significantly enhances healthcare accessibility in rural areas. Such developments are crucial, as they directly address the critical issue of medical shortages in underserved regions, suggesting a path forward for integrating technology to improve public health outcomes.
The involvement of academic institutions, including IITs and IIMs, further enriched the congress, showcasing groundbreaking research and innovations. The participation of organisations like C3iHub, which focuses on cyber-security for critical infrastructure, emphasises the vital role educational bodies play in shaping the technology landscape. This collaboration between academia and industry can drive forward-thinking solutions that address contemporary challenges.
Furthermore, the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) presented AI solutions aimed at smart agriculture, exemplifying technology's potential to optimise food production. Tools designed to monitor water quality and automate feeding in aquaculture not only illustrate advancements in agricultural efficiency but also reflect a broader commitment to sustainability. This focus on sustainable practices is crucial, especially as global food security becomes an increasing concern.
The emphasis on AI and its diverse applications suggests several important implications:
Economic Growth: By prioritising AI and technology, India could drive significant economic growth. Innovations in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and telecommunications can lead to increased productivity and new business opportunities.
Job Creation and Transformation: As AI takes on routine tasks, there will be a shift in job roles. While some jobs may be displaced, new roles focussing on AI management and innovation will emerge, necessitating a focus on workforce upskilling.
Healthcare Accessibility: The integration of technology in healthcare can bridge gaps in service delivery, particularly in rural areas. This could lead to improved health outcomes and a healthier workforce, ultimately benefiting the economy.
Sustainability: The commitment to sustainable technology in agriculture is timely and necessary. As global challenges related to food security and climate change intensify, these innovations could play a critical role in developing resilient food systems.
Global Leadership: India's proactive stance on ethical AI and data security could position it as a global leader in setting standards for technology use. This leadership can foster international collaborations and attract investments.
World Telecommunication Standardisation: Scope, Challenges, and Future Directions
The World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) is a significant event in the telecommunications sector, where member states and industry leaders come together to set international standards that shape the future of communication technologies. Organised by the International Tele-communication Union (ITU), WTSA serves as a forum for policymakers, industry experts, and academics to discuss and establish global standards in telecommunications. These standards are essential for ensuring interoperability, security, and quality across diverse technologies and platforms. The assembly meetings are organised every four years and focusses on a range of topics, including:
· Digital Infrastructure: Developing frameworks for the deployment and management of telecommunications networks.
· Emerging Technologies: Setting standards for new areas such as AI, quantum computing, and the meta-verse.
· Digital Public Infrastructure: Facilitating access to digital services and ensuring that innovations are inclusive and sustainable.
· Environmental Sustainability: Establishing standards that address the environmental impact of telecommunications technologies.
The Scope of WTSA
· Inclusivity and Engagement: One of the assembly's key objectives is to promote inclusivity, ensuring that diverse voices- including those of youth and women- are represented in the standard-setting process. This is crucial for creating standards that are equitable and reflective of global needs.
· Global Collaboration: WTSA serves as a platform for collaboration among member states, industry stakeholders, and academic institutions. The assembly aims to bridge the standardisation gap, particularly in developing coun-tries, by involving Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and fostering innovation.
· Addressing Rapid Technological Change: With technologies evolving at an unprecedented pace, WTSA provides a forum for discussing and developing standards that can keep up with innovations like AI and quantum computing. The assembly's focus on these areas reflect the urgency of establishing protocols that ensure safety, security, and interoperability.
· Capacity Building: Events like the AI for Good Impact India initiative aim to enhance the skills and knowledge of participants, particularly in developing nations, thus contributing to a more robust global standardisation frame-work.
Challenges in Telecommunications Standardisation
Despite its ambitious goals, the path to effective telecommunications standard-isation is fraught with challenges:
· Rapid Technological Evolution: The speed of technological change poses a significant hurdle. Standards must not only keep pace with innovations but also anticipate future developments. This requires constant vigilance and adaptability from standard-setting bodies.
· Inclusivity Issues: Although efforts are underway to increase participation from underrepresented groups, achieving true inclusivity remains a challenge.
· Complex Regulatory Environments: Differing national regulations can complicate the standardisation process. Countries often have unique legal and policy frameworks, making it challenging to reach consensus on international standards.
· Industry Engagement: While ITU has a strong membership base, there is still a need for broader participation from the private sector, especially from SMEs in developing regions. Their involvement is crucial for creating standards that are practical and applicable in real-world scenarios.
· Environmental Considerations: As the telecommunications sector grapp-les with its environmental impact, establishing standards that promote sustainability is paramount. The conversation around AI's energy consumption and its implications for the environment is one example of how emerging technologies can complicate standardisation efforts.
India's Ascendancy in Global Telecommunications Standards
India's recent election of candidates to leadership positions in all ten Study Groups of the International Telecommunication Union's (ITU) Standardization Sector (ITU-T) marks a significant milestone in the country's ambition to establish itself as a global technology leader. The increase in leadership roles from seven in 2022 to eleven in 2024 during the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) signals India's commitment to shaping international telecommunications standards at a critical juncture for the industry.
Understanding the Context: The ITU-T is a key organisation that develops international standards for telecommunications technologies. These standards are essential for ensuring interoperability, safety, and security across global networks. With the ongoing evolution of technologies such as Artificial Intelli-gence, the Metaverse, and the Internet of Things (IoT), the need for robust, forward-thinking standards is more critical than ever. India's leadership positions in the ITU-T, now totaling eleven- comprising one Chair and ten Vice-Chair roles- reflect not only its technical capabilities but also its strategic intent to influence the future direction of global telecommunication standards.
Implications of India's Enhanced Leadership
Increased Influence on Global Standards: By securing leadership in all Study Groups, India is positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping standards that govern emerging technologies. This influence will extend to critical areas such as digital public infrastructure and cybersecurity, ensuring that India's perspective and requirements are considered in global deliberations.
Catalyst for Domestic Innovation: The recognition of Indian experts in leadership roles will likely spur domestic innovation and development. With enhanced visibility in international forums, Indian companies and research institutions may be motivated to align their innovations with global standards, fostering a more robust telecommunications ecosystem at home.
Economic Opportunities: The emphasis on standardisation can lead to economic benefits, as firms that adhere to international standards can more easily access global markets. India's leadership can facilitate partnerships and collaborations, attracting foreign investments and enhancing its export potential in tele-communications technologies.
Strategic Positioning Against Global Competition: As nations compete for technological supremacy, India's assertive stance in the ITU-T allows it to counterbalance the influence of other major players in the telecommunications sector. This strategic positioning could help India negotiate better terms in technology transfer and collaboration agreements.
Focus on Sustainable and Inclusive Technologies: The discussions at WTSA-2024 covered topics that are pivotal for sustainable digital trans-formation. India's leadership can advocate for standards that not only address technological advancement but also emphasise social inclusion and environmental sustainability, reflecting its commitment to responsible innovation.
India's ascendance in global telecommunications standards development represents a significant opportunity for the country to shape the future of the industry. By leveraging its enhanced leadership within the ITU-T, India can drive innovation, economic growth, and sustainable practices on a global scale. As the tele-communications landscape continues to evolve, India's role as a leader in standardisation will not only influence its domestic agenda but also ensure that its voice is heard in the crucial discussions shaping the digital future.
Key Highlights of ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly 2024
Significant Global Participation: The assembly gathered over 3,000 industry leaders, policymakers, and tech experts from more than 190 countries, emphasising its importance as a global platform for telecommunications discussions.
Recognition of Digital Transformation: Industry leaders praised Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his visionary leadership, which has catalysed India's digital transformation and positioned it as a global data powerhouse.
Commitment to Local Manufacturing: Industry leaders emphasised initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) programme to reduce dependency on imports and establish India as a manufacturing hub for telecom equipment.
Future of 5G and LEO Networks: Telecom service providers announced plans for extensive 5G rollouts in urban and rural areas within the next 12 to 18 months, along with exploring Low Earth Orbit (LEO) networks to bridge connectivity gaps.
Support for MSMEs: Government's commitment to supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through digital transformation initiatives.
Telemedicine Milestone: Global leaders praised India achieving 10 crore telecommunication consultations in telemedicine, marking a significant advancement in healthcare access through digital means.
Focus on Spam Control and Fraud Protection: Ongoing efforts by the government and industry to tackle spam and fraud, ensuring a safer digital environment for users were highlighted.
Global Digital Compact: ITU Secretary General Ms. Doreen Bogdan Martin praised the collective actions of world leaders towards a global digital future, reinforcing the need for international standards to build trust and inclusion.
India's Leadership in Digital Public Infrastructure: The Prime Minister's vision includes sharing India's successful digital public infrastructure globally, promoting the unified payments interface as a model for other nations.
Call for Ethical AI Use: Ms. Bogdan Martin emphasised the importance of aligning technological advancements with digital inclusion, advocating for responsible and ethical use of AI.
(The author is correspondent of a leading national daily. Feedback on this article can be sent to feedback.employmentnews@gmail.com).
Views expressed are personal.