Empowering the least developed countries through information and communication technologies

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) focuses this year on “Empowering the least developed countries through information and communication technologies.” The aim behind the observance is to raise awareness of the potential of the internet and other information and communication technologies (ICT) in bringing societies and economies together by bridging the digital divide. The telcos are uniquely positioned to bring connectivity to underserved areas, and as they transition to technology companies, they are bringing innovative mobile solutions that are transforming lives, creating opportunities, and contributing to sustainable development.

Quotes from Telecom Sector Leaders

Amit Marwah, Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs (CMO), Nokia India
“On the occasion of World Telecom Day, Nokia once again reaffirms to creating technology that helps the world act together. For 30 years, Nokia has defined and enabled the world with technologies like 2G to 5G used to transform the way the world communicates, and at the same time helping in digitalizing societies to bridge the digital divide. Our leadership arises from a clear vision of the future of communications as outlined in our purpose and strategy. The adoption of Nokia-pioneered technology innovations will help people and planet to be more sustainable and resourceful. As communication networks become an ever-more critical infrastructure in the modern digital world, our innovations will ensure that tomorrow’s trusted networks can be built to transform the industries, cities and society to be smarter and much more efficient. We are committed to supporting a greener world which can enhance lives for the better.”

Arvind Bali, CEO, Telecom Sector Skill Council
“As the telecom sector in India moves ahead in the 5G revolution and aims towards achieving 6G capabilities by 2030, the need for skilled technical manpower becomes even more critical. India currently faces a 2.19mn telecom demand-supply gap, which is expected to increase to 3.8 times by 2030. Through strategic partnerships with industry leaders, training institutes, and the support of the government, we aim to train over 1 lac and place more than 1.25 lac youth in cutting-edge technologies such as 5G, network virtualization, and IoT in this year. We believe, with the right reskilling and hiring techniques by targeting adjacent talent in Tier-II & III cities and University supply, India has a robust opportunity to narrow the widening demand-supply gap by 2030. The skilled workforce will be the backbone in empowering the development of our growing economy. As we move towards a connected future, TSSC remains steadfast in its mission to provide industry-relevant training, foster innovation, and create a talent pool equipped to thrive in the dynamic and growing landscape of the telecom sector in India.”

Lt. Gen. AK Bhatt (Retd.), Director General, Indian Space Association
“As the 5G revolution gains momentum in India, satellite broadband will also be a key differentiator to bridge the digital divide in the country. High-quality broadband connectivity is critical for economic growth and prosperity, as we have seen globally and in India. The urban-rural divide remains severe with nearly 75% of rural India lacking access to broadband and many locations still lacking reliable cellular or fibre connectivity. There is a massive scope in India for the space-based solutions that are necessary to be harnessed owing to the massive demand generation taking place with the rise in mobile banking, online education, etc. Satellite communication will prove to be a gamechanger in the coming decade with its immense capability to reach the remotest of areas and connect the unconnected to actualize the vision of a Digital Bharat.”

TV Ramachandran, President of BIF said,
“ICTs can be a catalyst for development and change, and we are committed to making them accessible to all. We recognize that the challenges facing the least developed countries are complex and multifaceted, but we also believe that there is immense potential for using ICTs to address these challenges and create a better future for all.”

A. Gururaj, MD, Optiemus Electronics Limited
“Today’s announcement for PLI 2.0 with the additional financial outlay for IT Hardware is an excellent step for the comprehensive growth of the Indian electronics manufacturing industry. Apart from traditional categories like mobile and telecom, the special focus given to IT Hardware showcases the astute vision of our government. Optiemus Electronics is manufacturing IT Hardware for many reputed brands under the current PLI and now with the PLI 2.0, we are actively considering and evaluating our options to participate in this new phase of growth in electronics manufacturing. On behalf of the industry, we would like to thank the electronics minister and Hon’ble Prime Minister for this visionary step taken today.”

CT Bureau