Defence Sector ICT Conclave Highlights India's Role in Global ICT Innovation and Africa Collaboration

Ms. Madhu Arora, Member (Technology) of the Digital Communications Commission, addressed the inaugural session, emphasizing the critical role of ICT in defense operations.

The Telecom Equipment and Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC), in partnership with the Department of Telecommunications, the Ministry of Communications, and the Ministry of External Affairs, hosted the Defence Sector ICT Conclave in New Delhi on July 29, 2024. The event featured 18 companies showcasing their advancements in the ICT sector relevant to defense.

Ms. Madhu Arora, Member (Technology) of the Digital Communications Commission, addressed the inaugural session, emphasizing the critical role of ICT in defense operations. She praised India's ICT sector for its innovation and integrity, noting that Indian-designed and manufactured products are now being exported to over 100 countries. Arora highlighted that last year alone, India exported telecom equipment and services worth over USD 18.2 billion. She also noted the integration of India's first indigenous chip-based 4G mobile base station by the Indian Army.

Shri Abhishek Singh, Joint Secretary (ED & MER) of the Ministry of External Affairs, discussed the MEA's efforts to bolster ICT cooperation with Africa. Singh outlined initiatives to facilitate knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and capacity building, with a focus on emerging technologies like AI and blockchain. He highlighted India's significant investment in Africa, amounting to around USD 75 billion, and the role of Indian companies in driving digital transformation across the continent. Singh pointed out that Africa's growing ICT infrastructure presents opportunities for Indian companies to expand their services, particularly in rural areas.

Shri Sandeep Aggarwal, Immediate Past Chairman of TEPC, underscored the importance of ICT for India's defense and its role in maintaining national sovereignty. He emphasized India's expertise in data analytics and artificial intelligence, which enhances decision-making and operational effectiveness in defense operations.

Dr. Pankaj K. Dalela, Director (Board Member) of C-DOT, provided an overview of Indian telecom networks and ICT products, while R. Shakya, Senior Deputy Director General of the Department of Telecommunications, discussed potential collaborations under the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) framework.

The event saw participation from ambassadors, Deputy Chiefs of Missions, Defence Attachés, and Heads of Commerce wings from over 14 African countries. Shri Arun Gupta, Director General of TEPC, concluded the session with a vote of thanks.

TEPC, established by the Government of India in 2009 under the Foreign Trade Policy, aims to promote and develop the export of telecom equipment and services. The council supports various stakeholders within the telecom ecosystem, including equipment manufacturers, system integrators, service providers, and consultants.