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India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) co-hosted the Defence Sector ICT (Information and Communication Technology) Conclave in New Delhi on July 29, 2024, in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and the Ministry of External Affairs. The event, organised by the Telecom Equipment and Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC), showcased the technological advancements in the defence sector.
In her inaugural address, Ms Madhu Arora, Member (Technology) at the Digital Communications Commission, highlighted the pivotal role of ICT in defence operations and stressed India’s leadership in this field. She noted that Indian-designed and manufactured telecom equipment is now exported to over 100 countries, with a notable USD 18.2 billion worth of exports last year. The Indian Army has recently integrated its first indigenous 4G mobile base station, underscoring the country’s technological progress.
Shri Abhishek Singh, Joint Secretary (ED & MER) at the Ministry of External Affairs, spoke about India’s efforts to strengthen ICT cooperation with Africa. He outlined initiatives such as knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and skill development, focusing on emerging technologies like AI and blockchain. India’s significant investment in Africa, amounting to approximately USD 75 billion, reflects its commitment to enhancing ICT infrastructure across the continent.
Shri Sandeep Aggarwal, Immediate Past Chairman of TEPC, discussed the critical role of ICT in maintaining national sovereignty and security. He emphasised India’s expertise in data analytics and artificial intelligence, which enhances defence capabilities through predictive insights and improved decision-making.
Dr Pankaj K. Dalela, Director at C-DOT, provided an overview of the Indian telecom network and ICT products, while R. Shakya, Senior Deputy Director General at the Department of Telecommunications, discussed potential international collaborations under the ITU framework.
The conclave was attended by ambassadors, deputy chiefs of missions, defence attachés, and heads of commerce wings from over 14 African nations. Shri Arun Gupta, Director General of TEPC, concluded the event with a vote of thanks.
The TEPC, established by the Government of India in 2009, aims to promote and develop the export of telecom equipment and services, encompassing the entire ICT ecosystem, including hardware, software, infrastructure products, and consultancy services.
India is eagerly pursuing the deployment of cutting-edge technologies to enhance its national defence strategies. By integrating advanced solutions such as 5G, AI, and next-generation wireless systems, India aims to strengthen its military capabilities and ensure a robust defence infrastructure.
Strategic partnerships with research institutions and defence organisations are fostering innovations that address modern battlefield challenges and improve operational efficiency. This proactive approach underscores India’s commitment to advancing its defence sector through technological advancements, aligning with broader national goals of security and self-reliance.
In a landmark event, the Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE) and the Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering & Research (SAMEER) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance ‘Next Generation Wireless Technologies for the Indian Army.’
The MoU formalised in the presence of key dignitaries, will lead to the establishment of an ‘Advanced Military Research and Incubation Centre’ at MCTE. This centre will focus on developing cutting-edge technologies in areas such as 5G, 6G, and AI, and will support innovation from conception to production, involving MSMEs and startups.
The collaboration aims to enhance India’s military capabilities and technological infrastructure, with potential benefits extending to telecommunications and public safety. The partnership underscores a commitment to technological advancement and national security, aligning with India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
The Defence Sector ICT Conclave underscored India’s strategic commitment to incorporating advanced technologies into its national defence strategies. Additional collaborations focus on developing next-generation technologies to enhance India’s defence capabilities and infrastructure while advancing goals of technological self-reliance and national security. These initiatives position India at the forefront of technology integration in defence, reinforcing a strong and future-ready national security framework.
