The World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA 2024), held in New Delhi from October 15 to 24, attracted a record attendance of approximately 3,700 delegates from over 160 countries, marking the largest assembly in its history.

The assembly established priorities for standards and capacity development, with a focus on enhancing communication technologies for emergency services and automated driving.

India played a significant role in revising about 25 existing resolutions, addressing critical issues like cybersecurity, telecom numbering, and accessibility for persons with disabilities.

The inclusion of DPI standards is particularly critical for India, which has successfully implemented initiatives like Aadhaar, DigiLocker, and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), drawing interest from developing economies.

The decisions made at WTSA 2024 will influence future innovations and global connectivity, setting the strategic direction for ITU's standardization work over the next four years.

New resolutions prioritize support for developing countries in areas such as responsible AI, interoperable metaverse applications, and sustainable digital transformation.

Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the assembly underscored the significance of international cooperation in telecommunications, focusing on universal connectivity and ethical AI.

During the assembly, India advocated for global standards on digital public infrastructure (DPI) and artificial intelligence (AI), resulting in the adoption of two key resolutions.

ITU Secretary General Doreen Bogdan-Martin emphasized the importance of a shared digital future centered on innovation, inclusion, and sustainability, highlighting collaboration with India to leverage its platforms for technological advancements.

Bogdan-Martin also stressed the necessity for stronger AI standards to build trust and ensure safety in innovation, aligning with India's vision for a collaborative digital future.

Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia highlighted the transformative potential of communication technologies for societal development and emphasized India's commitment to international collaboration in developing global standards.

As a United Nations agency, the ITU conducts WTSA every four years to identify standardization needs in information and communication technologies, with the latest assembly concluding significant discussions on emerging technologies.