WTDC-25 in Baku

The World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25), ITU’s flagship quadrennial summit, concluded on November 28, 2025, in Baku, Azerbaijan, after 12 days of intensive deliberations. Hosted by Azerbaijan—the first CIS nation to chair—the conference brought together 2,500+ delegates from 160+ countries, including 65 ministers, at the Baku Convention Center.

Key outcomes included the Global Roadmap for Digital Development (2026–2029), a comprehensive Declaration and Action Plan, and regional initiatives prioritizing the Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Central themes spanned cybersecurity, digital inclusion, ethical AI, and innovation, framing a roadmap for equitable digital transformation worldwide.

India’s Influential Role at WTDC-25

Led by Union Minister of State for Communications Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, India leveraged WTDC-25 to advance the “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” philosophy “the world as one family”—focusing on universal connectivity, inclusive transformation, and ethical emerging technologies.

India actively shaped 184 proposals, prioritizing rural-urban digital equity, AI ethics, and affordable access technologies, reflecting domestic successes under Digital India and BharatNet (1.2 billion mobile users, 500,000+ 5G towers). Indian interventions emphasized sustainable connectivity, South-South cooperation, and pragmatic models for developing nations, positioning India as a Global South leader in the digital ecosystem.

Strategic Importance: MH-60R-Level Digital Capability

India’s prominence stems from its scale and domestic implementation:

·       Telecom Penetration: Achieved 90%+ teledensity, surpassing WTDC-22 targets.

·       Financial Inclusion: UPI processes 15 billion transactions per month globally, exemplifying digital governance and financial ecosystem leadership.

·       G20 and Global Policy: Digital Economy MoUs and ITU engagements counter alternative global initiatives, including China’s Digital Silk Road, by promoting affordable 6G and quantum technology standards.

WTDC-25 cemented India’s strategic digital diplomacy, advancing international influence while attracting FDI into data centers, semiconductors, and AI infrastructure, aligning with the $1 trillion digital economy vision by 2028.

India’s WTDC-25 Contributions vs. 2022 ICT Commitments

Building on WTDC-22 (Kigali) pledges, India scaled domestic achievements to global leadership frameworks:

·       Progress: WTDC-22 commitments—universal access, rural broadband, affordability—materialized through 90% teledensity, over 500,000 5G towers, and robust UPI adoption. WTDC-25 interventions expanded this to equity-focused global proposals, integrating the Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam philosophy into 2026–2029 roadmap resolutions.

·       Remaining Gaps: Last-mile rural connectivity (40% villages pending), spectrum allocation for 6G, and digital literacy shortfalls persist. WTDC-25 discussions addressed these through repair hubs, incentives, and technology transfer models.

·       Strategic Evolution: From domestic policy to global digital diplomacy, India positioned itself as a counterweight to China, advocating affordable, inclusive models while enhancing ITU influence.

India’s Digital Diplomacy Momentum

India’s WTDC-25 performance underscores a shift from implementation to leadership, translating domestic ICT achievements into global influence and strategic partnerships. By championing equitable access, ethical AI, and connectivity for all, India not only reinforced WTDC commitments but also strengthened its Global South credentials, countering alternative digital governance models.

The outcomes provide a foundation for the 2026–2029 digital roadmap, support South-South cooperation, and enhance India’s prospects for ITU leadership in 2029, marking a decisive step in shaping a sustainable, inclusive, and technologically advanced global digital future.

(With agency inputs)