India Mobile Congress: PM Modi Emphasizes Impact of Digital Connectivity and Good Governance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the progress of the country's telecom sector and the impact of digital connectivity during the inauguration ceremony of the 10th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC). On this occasion, he paid tribute to the brave personnel of the nation on Air Force Day and expressed gratitude upon completing 25 years as Prime Minister. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the renowned actor Nana Patekar following his passing and expressed condolences to his family.

Highlighting the achievements of the telecom sector, the Prime Minister noted that 5G was launched from this very platform in 2022, and today, 5G connectivity has reached every district in the country. India now has more than 5.5 lakh base stations, and mobile internet speeds have increased tenfold compared to 2022.

Speaking on good governance and Digital India, PM Modi stated that the mobile phone is no longer just a medium of communication but a tool for governance. He revealed that approximately 50 lakh crore rupees have been sent directly to the accounts of beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), which prevented leakages worth nearly 5 lakh crore rupees. Additionally, more than 4 lakh crore rupees have been deposited into farmers' bank accounts under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi.

In the field of education, the Prime Minister mentioned that over 500 crore learning sessions and approximately 6 thousand crore learning minutes were recorded on the online education platform 'DIKSHA' by July 2022. The government now aims to connect 25 crore students through digital mediums.

Expressing concern over cybersecurity challenges, the Prime Minister called for the creation of a global framework to combat deep-fakes and cyber fraud. He urged the GSMA and global telecom operators to establish a global mechanism capable of preventing fraud.

Discussing the future roadmap, PM Modi said that India is now moving toward becoming a creator rather than just a consumer, where product design and technology will be indigenous to India. He mentioned reforms such as a modern regulatory framework through the Telecom Act, reducing the burden of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) and bank guarantees, and digitizing Right of Way approvals via the GatiShakti Sanchar portal. He further noted that commercial production has commenced at five locations under the India Semiconductor Mission.