Why in news?

• The upcoming World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25), scheduled for November 17-28 in Baku, Azerbaijan,
• It will engage global ICT leaders to shape a new roadmap for inclusive digital development,
• Will be emphasizing universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for the 2.6 billion people still unconnected. 

About International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

• The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for information and communication technologies (ICT).
• Established in 1865 as the International Telegraph Union, it is the oldest UN agency.
• ITU coordinates the global use of the radio spectrum, satellite orbits, and develops worldwide technical standards for telecommunications and ICTs.
• It also works to improve telecommunication infrastructure and promote equitable access to ICTs, especially in developing countries.
• ITU has 194 member countries and around 900 other members from businesses, academic, and regional organizations, with its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
• Governance of ITU includes a Plenipotentiary Conference held every four years as the supreme decision-making body and an annually meeting ITU Council which governs between conferences.

The ITU is divided into three main sectors:

• ITU-R (Radio communication): Manages international radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.
• ITU-T (Standardization): Develops global technical standards for telecommunications.
• ITU-D (Development): Supports improving ICT access and infrastructure, especially in underserved regions.

India's role

• Hosting the ITU's “AI for Good – Impact India” Conference 2025 as part of India Mobile Congress, focusing on responsible and inclusive AI innovation.
• Emphasizing the vigilance needed against AI risks such as deep fakes and fraud while leveraging AI for network intelligence, self-healing networks, and improved customer service.
• Supporting global AI standards and governance aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
• The National Telecom Policy 2025 aligns with ITU goals, aiming for universal and meaningful connectivity by 2030, doubling the telecom sector’s contribution to GDP.
• India’s SATCOM (Satellite Communication) ambitions include a rapidly growing satellite communication market projected from $4.3 billion in 2024 to $14.8 billion by 2033.
• Expansion plans include connecting over 38,000 remote villages under the Universal Service Obligation Fund and Digital Bharat Nidhi, aiming for broadband and telecom access.
• Hosting international events like the Robotics for Good Youth Challenge in collaboration with ITU, highlighting youth engagement in innovation.
• Strengthening India's role in telecom standardization, performance quality, and global cooperation through continued coordination with ITU.

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