India emerging as global force in digital infrastructure, security: Experts

India is rapidly emerging as a major global force in digital infrastructure, internet security and the digital economy, with industry leaders and policymakers highlighting the country’s growing role in shaping the future of global connectivity. Speaking on the sidelines of the 62nd Asia Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC) meeting in Mumbai, experts said India has moved beyond being one of the world’s largest internet markets and is increasingly becoming a hub for digital innovation, artificial intelligence (AI) and internet security.

Sushil Pal, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), said the internet has evolved from being merely a communication tool into critical and strategic infrastructure that underpins a large part of government services. He noted that the importance of internet infrastructure is also growing in areas such as national security and defence, making the resilience and security of digital networks increasingly important.

According to Pal, the rapid expansion of internet access, along with the growing adoption of AI and emerging technologies such as quantum computing, is also creating new cybersecurity challenges. Cybercriminals are increasingly using sophisticated technologies to develop new methods of carrying out cyberattacks and digital fraud. He said the government is working closely with technology experts and industry stakeholders to strengthen the country’s cybersecurity framework.

Particular attention is being given to internet routing security to minimise the risks of route hijacking and network disruptions. Pal added that the government is actively collaborating with APNIC to strengthen routing security and build a more resilient internet ecosystem. Devesh Tyagi, Chief Executive Officer of the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI), described the hosting of APNIC’s 62nd meeting in India as a significant milestone for the country’s internet ecosystem.

He said the event is being held in India again after nearly 12 years, providing an important platform for the country's internet community to engage with global network operators and other stakeholders. Rajesh Chharia, President of the Internet Service Providers Association of India (ISPAI), highlighted the role of the National Internet Registry initiative in India's internet expansion. He said the establishment of IRINN in 2012 with the support of NIXI gave further momentum to the development of India's internet infrastructure. Kenny Huang, Chairman of the APNIC Executive Council, said the Asia-Pacific region has emerged as one of the world's most dynamic centres of digital growth and technological innovation.

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