The Forum provided participants from across the Commonwealth with important insights into India’s ICT innovations and the ways in which these technologies, products and services can be applied to other parts of the world. During the Forum, senior Indian public sector officials, as well as leading figures from Indian industry, and representatives from other Asian and African countries, reflected on the opportunities in the ICT sectors in their countries, and the potential to develop collaborative partnerships.

Dr Ajay Kumar, IAS Joint Secretary, Department of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India delivered the guest of honour address that focused on some of the challenges that India has faced, and how the country has overcome these challenges. The chief guest address was delivered by Anil Kaushal, Member (Technology), Telecom Commission, Government of India who presented the steps India has taken over the years in establishing its presence globally as an ICT leader. This achievement was made possible by implementing multiple projects across India, enhancing the access to and utilisation of ICTs for the benefit of the Indian population.

With some 50 delegates in attendance from across the world including Bangladesh, Ghana, India, Italy, Japan, Mozambique, Ukraine, Sierra Leone, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan and the UK, representing ministries, regulators, ICT implementing agencies, the private sector and Universal Service and Access Agencies, the event provided a platform to exchange views and build relationships.

Over three days, the event examined the key drivers for innovation and delved deeper into the impact new technologies will have on the end user. Key sessions of the event included: