Is India a Global Model for Digital Regulation?
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Synopsis
In a dynamic address, Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia articulated India's vision for digital regulation at the GSR 2025, urging global regulators to evolve into builders of inclusive ecosystems. Discover how India's innovative policies and rapid technological advancements are setting a benchmark for digital governance worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- India's regulatory vision focuses on inclusivity and innovation.
- 5G rollout connects 99.9% of districts, showcasing rapid digital transformation.
- New policies like the Telecommunications Act are modernizing legal frameworks.
- Flagship initiatives are empowering citizens and enhancing digital infrastructure.
- International cooperation is essential for harmonizing digital regulations.
New Delhi, Sep 1 (NationPress) Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya M. Scindia on Monday described India as a global exemplar of regulatory evolution, advocating for international regulators to transition from being mere gatekeepers to becoming architects of inclusive digital ecosystems.
He was delivering a virtual address at the International Telecommunication Union’s Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR) 2025, hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Addressing the high-level Executive Roundtable on the topic “What does it take for regulators to become digital ecosystem builders?”, Scindia emphasized that regulation in the digital age must extend beyond simply granting licenses or imposing penalties.
“Rather, it should emphasize vision, trust, and inclusive innovation to cultivate future-ready societies,” he remarked.
He elaborated that the responsibilities of regulators should now focus on three crucial aspects: proactive ecosystem architecture, nurturing innovation via regulatory sandboxes, and instilling trust through citizen-centric policies and robust data protection standards.
“If we succeed, we will not only connect individuals -- we will empower them. We will not merely construct networks -- we will construct nations,” he stated.
Highlighting India’s own progress, the Minister noted that the country’s swift 5G deployment has linked 99.9 percent of districts, covering 776 districts and reaching over 300 million users -- positioning India as the world’s largest data-consuming nation on a per capita basis.
Policy reforms like the Telecommunications Act, 2023 and the Telecom Cybersecurity Rules, 2024 have replaced obsolete colonial frameworks with a legal structure tailored for the AI and quantum era.
Scindia also cited flagship Indian initiatives such as Aadhaar, Jan Dhan Yojana, PM-WANI, BharatNet, and India Post as illustrations of how regulation can cultivate and expand digital public infrastructure.
He characterized them as “living arteries of empowerment,” linking citizens with dignity and opportunity.
Additionally, he called for international collaboration to harmonize spectrum bands, decrease costs, and establish disaster-resilient green networks.
Proposing a Digital Consumer Charter, he stated that it could act as a global standard to ensure fairness, transparency, and trust within the digital landscape.
The Minister further highlighted India’s balanced approach to Artificial Intelligence, mentioning the IndiaAI Mission, launched in 2024 with a budget of Rs 10,371.92 crore.
Describing GSR as a “beacon of international cooperation,” Scindia asserted that India is not only the world’s largest digital society but also an emerging leader in regulatory innovation.
He concluded that 21st-century regulation must be about constructing inclusive digital futures for societies worldwide.
Point of View
It is pivotal to recognize the transformative journey India is undertaking in digital regulation. With a focus on inclusivity and innovation, the nation is positioned to lead global discussions on regulatory frameworks. This approach not only enhances national infrastructure but also sets a precedent for other countries to follow, ensuring a more equitable digital landscape.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is India's vision for digital regulation?
India aims to be a global leader in digital regulation, focusing on inclusivity, innovation, and trust, as articulated by Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia.
How does India plan to empower citizens through digital regulation?
By transforming regulatory frameworks and implementing initiatives like the Telecommunications Act and the IndiaAI Mission, India seeks to connect and empower citizens digitally.
What initiatives are being highlighted as examples of effective regulation?
Key initiatives include Aadhaar, Jan Dhan Yojana, and BharatNet, which serve as models for building digital public infrastructure.
What is the significance of the Digital Consumer Charter?
The proposed Digital Consumer Charter aims to set a global standard for fairness, transparency, and trust in the digital space.
How does India's approach to AI regulation differ?
India's balanced approach to AI emphasizes ethical standards and robust frameworks to ensure responsible use of technology.
