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The opening ceremony of the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics made headlines –
but not just for outstanding performances or vibrant displays. A cyberattack on
the latest Winter Olympics resulted in a 12-hour
disruption, leaving attendees from across the globe unable to retrieve or print purchased
tickets during the momentous event 1]. The outage demonstrates
how disruptive cyberattacks can be – often much worse than a slew of frustrated
guests, especially when involving more critical infrastructure.
In 2014, the Indian government
established the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre
(NCIIPC) to regulate and protect the nation’s Critical Information
Infrastructures (CIIs). CIIs are defined by the Information
Technology Act of 2000 as vital computer resources that, if incapacitated
or destroyed, will leave a debilitating impact on national security, economy,
public health or safety across both public and private sectors [2].
Although many CIIs are primarily owned and operated by the private
sector, such as banks and commercial facilities, the role of government is
equally important when evaluating how best to protect organizations and industries
from attack. Here are three key areas governments should focus on when
implementing a cybersecurity strategy –
· Take charge with national recommendations
– Securing our critical
infrastructure requires coordinated efforts from various government agencies as
well as the private sector. However, governments should take the lead and issue
standards and best practices on the most effective approach.
For example, last year, the Singapore
Cyber Security Agency held Exercise
Cyber Star with 11 designated Critical Information
Infrastructures (CII) to put the country’s cyber incident management and
emergency response plans to test. This was done through a series of simulated
cybersecurity incidents, planning sessions and workshops [3] and served as a good
platform for the organizations and agencies to assess their cyber-readiness and
knowledge-share on best practices. Assessing the current state of readiness is
the first step to implementing an effective cybersecurity plan.
· Be aware of weak lines between OT and
IT – Operational Technology (OT) is a system that monitors and controls
physical devices and processes, such as how much electricity is generated
through transmission lines. Traditionally, these functions were run on man-operated
equipment. With the growth of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, many OT systems
are now equipped with IP addresses to enable remote access streamline control operations.
This transition means that OT and IT networks are increasingly connected and security
standards must be kept up-to-date to ensure proper barriers between the
networks.
Successful measures include improved
access control and encryption, which helps prevent hackers from gaining access
to IT networks and enables quick control of OT that could result in disruptions
or ransom of essential services like electricity, water and public transport.
· Stay adaptable as IT landscapes evolve
– A recent
study found that 92% of businesses leaders in India
believe that organizations need to adopt a digital-first mindset to drive
growth [4].
As such, we will soon start to witness private and public sector organizations moving
toward digitalised business models that rely on the latest advanced technology
trends. From the growth of IoT to moving into public clouds and artificial
intelligence, IT operations and security must adapt to keep pace with the
newest advancements, all while mitigating risks.
While attacks on critical
infrastructure can have dire consequences, they are akin to attacks that have already
hit other industries and can be managed with existing best practices. New or
improved technologies can also help enhance the protection of critical
infrastructure assets. Voice and video analytics platforms powered by machine
learning, for instance, provide a number of capabilities, including crowd
control, gauging expected motions and identifying objects and individuals
whether stationary or in motion.
Critical infrastructure protection is essential to the security of India.
While daily operations among the private and public sectors continue to differ,
a collective effort is required to securely build India’s digital economy and
achieve the Smart Cities Mission by 2020. Information sharing and collaboration
between the public and private sectors are equally vital to securing the nation’s
critical infrastructure.
[1] Hackers Targeted the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony to ‘Embarrass’ South Korea, TIME, 13 February 2018
[2] Guidelines
for Protection of Critical Information Structure, National Critical Information
Infrastructure Protection Centre, 16 January 2015
[3] 11
critical information infrastructure sectors tested for first time in national
cybersecurity exercise, Channel NewsAsia, 18 July 2017
[4] 92%
Indian leaders at the forefront of advocating ‘Digital Organizations’ for
business growth – reveals Microsoft Asia Digital Transformation Study,
Microsoft News Center India, 28 March 2017
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In a remarkable leap forward in the field of neuroscience, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) have introduced a groundbreaking algorithm known as the Unique Brain Network Identification Number (UBNIN). This innovative algorithm is poised to revolutionise the analysis of brain connectivity patterns, offering profound insights into both healthy brain function and neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD).
The human brain, with its intricate network of neural connections, is a marvel of complexity. Each individual possesses a unique pattern of brain connectivity, akin to a fingerprint of the mind. Recognising the significance of these individualised brain networks, the researchers at IIT Guwahati set out to develop a method capable of decoding and quantifying these intricate patterns.
The UBNIN algorithm represents a paradigm shift in how we understand and analyse brain connectivity. Drawing upon data from structural MRI scans, the algorithm constructs a network model of the brain, with each region of the brain represented as a node. These nodes are interconnected by edges, reflecting the strength of connectivity between different brain regions.
What sets UBNIN apart is its ability to distil this complex network into a single numerical identifier. This unique identifier, akin to a digital signature for the brain, encapsulates the individualised connectivity patterns of each person. By quantifying these patterns into numerical values, UBNIN offers a powerful tool for understanding the structural organisation of the brain.
The implications of UBNIN are far-reaching. One potential application lies in the realm of brainprinting, where individual brain signatures could be used for identification purposes. Much like a fingerprint uniquely identifies an individual, UBNIN could serve as a digital identifier for the brain, with applications in personalised medicine, biometrics, and cognitive neuroscience.
Moreover, UBNIN holds promise as a biomarker for neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the brain. Early detection of Parkinson’s is crucial for initiating timely interventions and improving patient outcomes. By analysing changes in UBNIN values over time, researchers may be able to identify subtle alterations in brain connectivity associated with the onset and progression of Parkinson’s disease.
To validate the utility of UBNIN as a biomarker for Parkinson’s disease, researchers conducted a comprehensive study involving structural MRI scans from both PD patients and healthy individuals. The results were promising, with UBNIN values exhibiting distinct patterns in PD patients compared to healthy controls. This suggests that UBNIN has the potential to serve as a sensitive and specific biomarker for Parkinson’s disease, offering new avenues for early diagnosis and disease monitoring.
Furthermore, the researchers explored the impact of age on brain connectivity patterns. Aging is associated with changes in brain structure and function, which may contribute to the development of neurological disorders. By analysing structural MRI data from individuals across different age groups, the researchers found that brain connectivity patterns indeed change with age. Specifically, they observed a decrease in the clustering coefficient—a measure of network connectivity—with increasing age. These findings provide valuable insights into the dynamic nature of brain plasticity and aging.
Dr. Cota Navin Gupta, Assistant Professor at the Neural Engineering Lab, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, IIT Guwahati, commented on the significance of these findings. “UBNIN offers a unique window into the structural organisation of the brain,” he remarked. “By quantifying individualised brain connectivity patterns, UBNIN has the potential to transform our understanding of brain function and dysfunction.”
Looking ahead, the researchers envision further applications of UBNIN in diverse fields, ranging from personalised medicine to cognitive neuroscience. By harnessing the power of UBNIN, researchers may unlock the mysteries of the human brain, paving the way for new insights into neurological disorders and brain health.
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In a landmark display of indigenous innovation, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) unveiled its latest breakthrough: the NeoStand Electric Standing Wheelchair. This cutting-edge mobility solution promises to redefine accessibility for wheelchair users across India.
With its emphasis on user empowerment and well-being enabled by technology, NeoStand stands poised to usher in a new era of accessibility, where every individual, regardless of ability, can realise their full potential.
Led by Professor Sujatha Srinivasan, Head of the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras, the development of NeoStand represents a significant milestone in the quest for inclusive technology.
At the heart of NeoStand lies a commitment to user-centric design and functionality. Unlike conventional wheelchairs, NeoStand features a motorised standing mechanism that allows users to effortlessly transition between sitting and standing positions with the push of a button. This innovative feature opens up a world of possibilities for individuals with mobility impairments, enabling them to engage in face-to-face interactions, access higher shelves, and experience the physical and psychological benefits of standing.
The launch event illuminated the profound societal impact of NeoStand, showcasing its potential to redefine accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with mobility impairments. By bridging the gap between innovation and social responsibility, NeoStand symbolises a transformative shift towards a more equitable and empowering future
“These translational research endeavours underscore our commitment to fostering social impact through innovative solutions,” remarked Professor Kamakoti. “Indeed, NeoStand represents more than just a mobility aid; it symbolises a paradigm shift in how we perceive and address the needs of individuals with disabilities.”
One of the key drivers behind NeoStand’s development is its emphasis on promoting user independence and well-being. For many wheelchair users, the ability to stand remains an elusive goal, often hampered by physical limitations and reliance on external assistance. NeoStand seeks to address these challenges head-on, offering users the freedom to stand comfortably whenever needed. This not only enhances their physical health by improving blood circulation and digestion but also fosters a sense of empowerment and autonomy.
The journey from concept to reality has been made possible through a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders. Sponsored by a company as part of its corporate social responsibility initiative and developed in partnership with NeoMotion, an IIT Madras-incubated startup, NeoStand exemplifies the transformative potential of public-private collaboration.
“The launch of a new product this evening for the differently abled signifies a turning point in our endeavour to foster inclusiveness and empowerment,” remarked Mr. Sudhakar Rao, IAS (Rtd), Member of the Board of Directors at the company.
Professor Srinivasan, the driving force behind NeoStand’s development, highlighted the device’s therapeutic benefits and ease of use. “Integrating standing functionality into a wheelchair provides health benefits as well as functional and psychological benefits to the user,” she explained.
Testimonials from users like Mr. Justin Jesudas, a quadriplegic individual, further attest to the life-changing impact of NeoStand who noted that, “The ability to stand with just a push of a button makes the wheelchair even more inclusive, helping quadriplegics to stand independently.”
Looking ahead, NeoStand stands out for individuals with mobility impairments, promising a future where accessibility knows no bounds. As India continues to embrace innovation and inclusivity, initiatives like NeoStand serve as a testament to the transformative power of technology in shaping a more equitable society.
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In a significant development, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released a comprehensive set of recommendations on the usage of embedded SIM (eSIM) for Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communications. This comes at a crucial juncture, as the proliferation of IoT devices and the imminent rollout of 5G services underscore the pressing need for clear regulatory frameworks to govern emerging technologies.
Prompted by a directive from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), TRAI embarked on an extensive consultative process to solicit insights from stakeholders and industry experts. The formulation of these recommendations began with a consultation paper on ‘Embedded SIM for M2M Communications’ on 25 July 2022. TRAI then fostered extensive stakeholder engagement, including submissions and a virtual open house discussion on December 14, 2022, ensuring broad participation and inclusivity.
Against the backdrop of rapid technological advancement and evolving consumer needs, TRAI’s recommendations aim to address key challenges and opportunities in the realm of M2M communications. At the heart of these recommendations lies a dual commitment to fostering innovation and safeguarding consumer interests.
By delineating clear guidelines for the deployment and management of eSIM technology, TRAI seeks to lay the foundation for a robust and resilient M2M ecosystem that promotes transparency, security, and interoperability.
Central to TRAI’s recommendations is the imperative of ensuring robust security measures across the M2M value chain. Recognising the inherent vulnerabilities associated with IoT devices and the potential ramifications of security breaches, TRAI underscores the importance of implementing stringent Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols. By mandating proper verification procedures for device activation and subscription management, TRAI aims to mitigate fraud risks, safeguard network integrity, and enhance consumer trust in M2M communications.
TRAI’s recommendations encompass a comprehensive framework for profile switching of eSIMs and swapping of Subscription Manager-Secure Routing (SM-SR), thereby enhancing flexibility and choice for consumers. By enabling seamless transitions between different network providers and service plans, these provisions empower consumers to optimise their connectivity experience while promoting healthy competition within the telecom sector.
The rollout of 5G services in India has ushered in a new era of connectivity, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for innovation and economic growth. Against this backdrop, TRAI’s recommendations seek to capitalise on the transformative potential of M2M communications across diverse sectors such as agriculture, transportation, healthcare, and industrial automation.
Streamlining the regulatory landscape for M2M eSIMs will facilitate the seamless integration of IoT devices into existing networks, thereby catalysing the development of smart infrastructure and digital ecosystems.
Key stakeholders, including Unified Access Service License holders, Unified License holders, and M2M Service Providers, are envisioned to play pivotal roles in the implementation of these recommendations. By fostering collaboration and partnership between industry players, TRAI aims to ensure the effective deployment and management of eSIM technology, thereby enabling the realisation of India’s vision for digital self-reliance and technological sovereignty.
However, the journey towards realising the full potential of M2M communications is not without its challenges. TRAI acknowledges the complexities inherent in implementing these recommendations, particularly in the context of India’s diverse and dynamic telecom landscape. In this regard, TRAI has refrained from permitting the use of 901.XX IMSI series allocated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for M2M services in India, citing the need for a phased approach towards adoption and implementation.
TRAI’s recommendations represent a significant milestone in India’s journey towards harnessing the transformative potential of M2M communications. By providing a clear regulatory framework for the deployment and management of eSIM technology, TRAI seeks to foster innovation, promote consumer welfare, and advance the nation’s digital agenda.
As stakeholders gear up to embrace these recommendations, India looks to emerge as a global leader in M2M communications, driving sustainable development, and inclusive growth in the digital era.
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Recognising exemplary projects that harness ICTs for sustainable development goals, the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes celebrate outstanding achievements in leveraging information and communication technology.
The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), a United Nations initiative co-hosted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Swiss Confederation, stands as a pivotal platform focusing on the transformative power of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in society. With a mission to bridge the digital divide and harness ICTs for inclusive social and economic development, the WSIS process underscores a structured, inclusive approach at global, regional, and national levels.
Among the exceptional entrants in the WSIS Prizes 2024 is the “Mobile-enabled Disaster Resilience through Cell Broadcast Emergency Alerting” project developed by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), a premier Telecom R&D centre under the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India.
C-DOT’s solution has qualified in the category of “Benefits in all aspects of life – E-environment,” amidst a competitive field of over 1000 global entries. The “Mobile-enabled Disaster Resilience through Cell Broadcast Emergency Alerting” system represents a state-of-the-art, indigenous solution designed to deliver critical, life-saving emergency information instantly to mobile phones via cellular telecom networks in a broadcast mode. Through distinct tones and pop-up notifications, the system ensures effective alerting, capturing user attention in real-time during critical situations.
This end-to-end solution facilitates geo-targeted emergency alerts to citizens’ mobile phones, seamlessly integrating government emergency alert dissemination platforms with the country’s telecom networks for rapid information delivery to a large population within seconds. With ITU Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) X.1303 interfaces, the solution enables connectivity with CAP-based alert dissemination platforms and offers interworking connectors for seamless integration with the unique network architectures of any telecom operator.
Beyond disaster and emergency scenarios, C-DOT’s solution finds applicability across various sectors, including government directives, law enforcement, defence, industrial and advertising domains. Its capacity to disseminate timely alerts proves invaluable in situations requiring immediate attention, such as earthquakes, lightning, tsunamis, and more.
Accompanying C-DOT’s solution in the competition are other qualified products and solutions within the same category. Through a voting process, projects garnering significant support will progress to the next round. Given the life-saving potential of this indigenous “Make in India” solution, C-DOT urges support through casting votes, thereby advancing its innovative solution to the forefront of global recognition.
India’s position as a frontrunner in the international telecommunications arena has been validated as Dr Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India, spearheaded a prestigious delegation to the headquarters of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in Geneva.
Dr Neeraj Mittal’s appointment as Co-chair of the Digital Innovation Board at the ITU marks a pivotal moment, signifying India’s pivotal leadership role in fostering digital innovation on a global scale. This significant designation not only acknowledges India’s profound expertise and contributions within the telecommunications sphere but also underscores its steadfast commitment to propelling transformative endeavours that harness technology for widespread socio-economic progress and inclusive growth worldwide.
Participation in the Mobile World Congress 2024 (MWC24) highlights India’s dedication to technological progress and international cooperation in the telecommunications sector. The conference, themed “Future First” and hosted by GSMA, stressed industry unity and innovation to unlock future potential, aligning with India’s vision for digital transformation and socio-economic advancement.
Led by Dr. Neeraj Mittal, India’s representation at MWC24 showcased the nation’s telecom advancements and global partnerships. Secretary Mittal reaffirmed India’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology as a driver for socio-economic development. He emphasized that India’s unwavering focus on innovation not only fuels economic growth but also addresses critical social issues and enhances citizens’ well-being.
Through strategic initiatives and collaborative endeavours, India actively integrates advanced technologies into its developmental agenda, fostering inclusive growth and laying the groundwork for a more prosperous future for all.
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India’s prominent role in shaping the global telecommunications landscape was reinforced as Dr Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India, led a high-level delegation to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Headquarters in Geneva.
Dr Neeraj Mittal’s election as Co-chair of the Digital Innovation Board of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) represents a significant milestone, underscoring India’s prominent leadership role in fostering digital innovation on the global stage. This appointment not only acknowledges India’s expertise and contributions in the field of telecommunications but also reflects its commitment to driving transformative initiatives that leverage technology for socio-economic development and inclusive growth worldwide
The Digital Innovation Board, formed under the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Alliance for Digital Development, comprises Ministers and Vice Ministers of Telecom/ICT from 23 ITU member countries. It aims to provide strategic guidance and advocacy for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in digital development, crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable digital future.
The visit, aimed at fostering collaboration and exploring innovative initiatives in the telecommunications and information and communication technology (ICT) sectors, yielded several significant outcomes.
Discussions during the visit centred on scaling up ITU Area Office India, Digital Innovation Board, Digital Transformation Lab, Acceleration centres, and the Global Innovation Centre in India. Agreements were reached on various initiatives aimed at enhancing collaboration and innovation in the telecommunications sector. These initiatives are poised to play a pivotal role in accelerating the digital transformation journey of India and other member countries.
Furthermore, the visit emphasised India’s increased participation in ITU activities. Efforts to engage academia and industry members from India were discussed, with a focus on enhancing India’s contributions to the global telecommunications agenda. Bilateral meetings with Japan and Bahrain yielded proposals for collaborations on various fronts, including AI, 5G use cases, cybersecurity, and the development of the Data Embassy. These partnerships underscore India’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and leveraging technology for mutual socio-economic benefit.
The bilateral meeting with Japan, co-chaired by Dr. Mittal and Mr. Hiroshi Yoshida, Vice Minister, Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan, reviewed engagements between India and Japan in the telecom and ICT sectors. Both parties proposed active collaboration on AI, 5G use cases, and Quantum Products certification. They stressed the need for collaboration to develop a framework on trusted products and agreed to operationalise sub-working groups on 5G use cases and massive MIMO under the India-Japan Joint Working Group on ICT.
Similarly, the bilateral meeting with Bahrain, co-chaired by Dr Mittal and Mr Mohammed Bin Thamir, Minister of Transport and Telecom of the Kingdom of Bahrain, explored opportunities for collaboration in the ICT sector. Both countries decided to actively collaborate in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, 5G use cases, Cybersecurity, and the development of the Data Embassy. Additionally, discussions revolved around revisiting the MoU on ICT between the two countries that lapsed in 2015. India proposed sharing the TEC standard on Fairness Assessment and Rating of Artificial Intelligence Systems and status notes on the regulatory sandbox with Bahrain.
The visit to the ITU Headquarters and the outcomes achieved therein underscore India’s proactive approach to shaping global telecommunications policies and leveraging innovation for socio-economic progress. Through active engagement and collaboration with international partners, India aims to harness the power of technology for inclusive growth and sustainable development on a global scale.
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The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) have jointly unveiled the BhashaNet portal during the Universal Acceptance Day event held in Delhi, with active support from the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). This initiative marks a significant stride towards advancing digital inclusivity and promoting Universal Acceptance throughout India.
NIXI and MeitY collaborated to organise Universal Acceptance Day, with the primary objective of rallying stakeholders and amplifying awareness regarding the critical need for Universal Acceptance (UA) readiness in the contemporary digital environment.
Themed “BhashaNet: Impetus Towards Universal Acceptance”, the event underscored MeitY/NIXI’s commitment to ensuring that individuals can seamlessly participate in the digital realm irrespective of linguistic or textual barriers.
BhashaNet is an initiative aimed at fostering a multilingual internet ecosystem, eliminating language barriers to enable seamless creation, communication, transactions, processing, and retrieval of information in the digital realm.
This initiative endeavours to provide citizens with a platform where they can navigate the digital landscape effortlessly, regardless of the language they speak or understand.
The event brought together government officials and industry leaders to celebrate this milestone, reaffirming India’s commitment to creating a more inclusive digital space that caters to the diverse linguistic and cultural landscape of the nation.
The event featured a diverse array of engaging sessions, encompassing keynote addresses, panel discussions, and technical workshops, all spearheaded by eminent speakers hailing from diverse sectors. These discussions centred around elucidating the significance of UA and delineating the requisite steps essential for achieving ubiquitous acceptance across digital platforms.
These sessions aimed to equip participants and the wider community with insights and best practices for achieving Universal Acceptance readiness, thereby fostering an environment where applications and systems are compliant with Universal Acceptance standards.
India’s successful hosting of the regional Universal Acceptance Day event sets the stage for the upcoming Global Universal Acceptance Day scheduled to convene on March 28, 2024, in Belgrade, Serbia.
In his keynote address, S. Krishnan, Secretary of MeitY, emphasised the indispensable nature of Universal Acceptance for ensuring an inclusive internet environment, particularly for non-English speakers. He stressed the importance of leveraging technology and fostering collaboration to meet the diverse needs of every user, regardless of language or script. Furthermore, he highlighted India’s potential to lead in setting standards for Universal Acceptance conformance.
Established on June 19, 2003, the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) operates as a not-for-profit (Section 8) company under the auspices of MeitY, with a primary mandate to enhance internet penetration and usage across India. NIXI is entrusted with various infrastructure-related responsibilities aimed at facilitating the effective management and utilisation of the Internet ecosystem by the general populace.
Its core services encompass the establishment of Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) and administration of the .IN Registry to bolster the digital identity of the .in domain, the facilitation of IPv4 and IPv6 address adoption through IRINN and provision of data storage services via NIXI-CSC’s Data Centre offerings.
India is dedicated to ensuring the broadest possible participation in its digital transformation endeavours, aiming to empower every segment of society to contribute actively to the burgeoning digital economy.
In a collaborative initiative, to transform India’s skill ecosystem, Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan, revealed a set of strategic partnerships designed to harness state-of-the-art technology. Formulated in conjunction with industry pioneers, educational institutions, and governmental bodies, these initiatives are geared towards bolstering the country’s workforce readiness to thrive in the dynamic and technology-centric environment of the 21st century.
Recognising the transformative potential of digital technologies, the nation is committed to bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusivity, thus enabling individuals from all walks of life to leverage digital platforms for economic empowerment and social advancement.
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The Startup Mahakhumbh 2024 has heralded the onset of an event that unites India’s vibrant startup ecosystem under one roof. Hosted at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from March 18-20, 2024 it was themed of ‘Bharat Innovates’.
The initiative aimed to catalyse innovation, facilitate networking, and foster growth opportunities for startups, investors, incubators, accelerators, and industry leaders across diverse sectors.
At the forefront of this dynamic gathering stands the MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) innovation showcase. The MeitY Pavilion has emerged as a nucleus of innovation and entrepreneurship, boasting the participation of over 40 innovative startups.
The startups seized the opportunity to showcase their cutting-edge innovations, creating a dynamic platform for engaging with industry experts, investors, and potential partners. Interactions paved the way for valuable connections and growth opportunities, enriching the collaborative spirit of the event.
In addressing critical challenges and opportunities within the startup space, Jeej Vijay, CEO of MeitY Startup Hub (MSH), shared insights with a panel discussion focusing on “Funding DeepTech: Venture Capital’s Perspective on Research-Backed Startups”. His expertise shed light on navigating the intricacies of venture capital funding, particularly for startups grounded in deep technology and research-driven innovations.
To further foster the growth and development of startups, MeitY Startup Hub organised a Startup Masterclass as part of the event. This masterclass provided startups with invaluable insights, practical knowledge, and networking opportunities aimed at enhancing growth and success in the dynamic startup ecosystem.
MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) hosted an exclusive Incubator Masterclass, covering a wide array of topics essential for the success of both incubators and startups. The masterclass delved into crucial areas such as fundraising and investment trends, effective mentorship and support strategies, building robust startup ecosystems, and best practices in startup incubation.
India boasts one of the world’s most vibrant startup ecosystems, with nearly 8000 tech startups, positioning it as the second-largest startup ecosystem globally. Consequently, innovation and entrepreneurship have become focal points, vigorously promoted to bolster the Indian economy. The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, spearheads and facilitates a wide range of Innovation and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) activities nationwide, aimed at expanding this ecosystem.
As MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) consolidates its efforts, attracting a plethora of startups, incubators, mentors, and Centres of Excellence (CoEs), it aims to emerge as the premier collaborative platform for the tech startup community. Central to this mission is establishing innovative partnerships and fostering meaningful synergies with all stakeholders within the tech ecosystem across the country.
MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) is an initiative by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the technology sector. MSH supports startups, incubators, and Centres of Excellence (CoEs) through various programs and initiatives to drive digital transformation and promote India’s leadership in emerging technologies.
India is actively seeking to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the digital realm, recognising its potential to drive economic growth and transformation. With initiatives aimed at empowering startups, encouraging digital innovation, and creating a conducive ecosystem, India is poised to become a global hub for digital entrepreneurship and innovation.
OpenGov Asia reported on the establishment of 10 Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) in Thiruvananthapuram, marking a significant stride in fostering innovation and skill development among students. The Atal Innovation Mission aims to cultivate innovation in one million Indian children through Atal Tinkering Laboratories in schools, fostering creativity and essential skills.
Similarly, a set of strategic partnerships aimed at modernising India’s skill ecosystem was launched. These collaborations, formed with industry leaders, academia, and government departments, will bolster the nation’s workforce readiness for the technology-driven 21st-century landscape.