Good morning everyone,
It’s a pleasure to speak before you today on an occasion that connects every person in this room — World Telecommunication Day. Celebrated each year on May 17, this day is not only about appreciating the technology we use daily but also understanding its vast influence on our society.
World Telecommunication Day marks the foundation of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 1865. Over time, the world has shifted from telegrams to instant messages, from landlines to smartphones, and from limited data to limitless access. Yet the goal remains the same — to connect people globally.
Let us take a moment to appreciate how deeply telecommunication impacts our lives. Whether it’s a student attending online classes, a farmer receiving crop updates through SMS, or a family catching up over a video call — every action is rooted in telecommunication.
This year’s theme, “Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development,” reminds us that technology must serve both the planet and its people. We are no longer living in a time where communication is a luxury — it is now a necessity, and in many cases, a lifeline.
The importance of telecommunication became crystal clear during the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools shifted to online learning. Offices turned into virtual workspaces. Hospitals offered telemedicine. Entire societies adapted — thanks to digital networks and connectivity.
This reminds me of how International Nurses Day, celebrated on May 12, also falls close to this date. It’s a powerful coincidence. Nurses, during the pandemic, relied heavily on telecommunications to monitor, coordinate, and even guide care in remote areas. Their service, amplified through technology, saved countless lives.
Telecommunication is the invisible thread that binds sectors — health, education, agriculture, finance, governance. E-banking brings financial access to rural areas. e-Governance platforms allow citizens to avail services without long queues. Farmers get real-time weather updates through mobile alerts. And during natural disasters, emergency alerts save lives.
But we must also reflect on the growing digital divide. Not everyone has equal access to fast internet or modern devices. Bridging this divide is essential if we truly want development that’s inclusive. The goal should not just be smarter cities but smarter villages too.
Today, let us also celebrate those behind the scenes. The engineers, developers, cybersecurity experts, customer service agents, and researchers who ensure our networks work seamlessly. These are the unsung heroes of the digital age.
As we step into New Year 2026, what lies ahead for telecommunication?
We will see wider use of 5G networks, smarter homes, and even driverless cars. Telehealth will become more common, and education will continue to blend physical classrooms with digital platforms. Satellite internet may make connectivity possible even in the most remote corners of the world.
With such power, comes responsibility. We must address issues like cybersecurity, online privacy, and misinformation. Digital literacy is crucial. People must not only have access to technology but also know how to use it safely and effectively.
Let’s also talk about sustainability. Technology must evolve without harming the environment. That includes using energy-efficient networks, recycling e-waste responsibly, and promoting green innovations. Telecommunication must be a tool for progress, not pollution.
Our youth are the biggest users of digital platforms. Therefore, it is important to educate them on responsible online behavior. Schools and communities must make digital ethics part of everyday learning.
Telecommunication doesn’t just connect people — it empowers them. It creates jobs, improves health, supports learning, and fuels economies. From mobile apps for women’s safety to voice-enabled AI for the visually impaired — innovation must aim to uplift.
In India, initiatives like Digital India are helping bridge the connectivity gap. But more needs to be done. We must ensure that no village, no child, no elderly person is left behind in the digital race.
Before I close, let us remember that communication is more than technology. It’s about human connection. Let us use the power of telecommunication to spread kindness, education, and hope. Let us innovate not just with data, but with compassion.
On this World Telecommunication Day, let’s commit to a digital future that is inclusive, secure, and sustainable.
Thank you all, and happy World Telecommunication Day!