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World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25): Overview
The World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25), the ITU-D’s flagship event, concluded in Baku, Azerbaijan, bringing together around 2,300 delegates, including over 65 ministers and agency heads. WTDC 25, held every four years, sets the global agenda for telecom development and digital inclusion.
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WTDC 2025: India’s Participation and Leadership
India outlined its national priorities on universal connectivity, sustainable digital transformation, and the role of emerging technologies in inclusive growth.
India held several key international leadership roles at the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025:
- Conference Vice-Chair, APT-WTDC-25 Coordination Chair, and Chair of the Ad Hoc Group on Digital Transformation & Innovation.
- Secured two Vice-Chair positions for the ITU-D Study Groups (2026-29).
- India contributed to the adoption of 19 APT Common Proposals, held 11 minister-level bilateral meetings, and engaged with 50+ countries.
- C-DOT showcased indigenous telecom solutions at a dedicated stall, generating strong interest from member states. India also hosted a networking reception to support its candidature for the ITU Council (2027-2030).
1) WTDC 2025 Resolutions 85, 89 & 90: Digital Transformation & Innovation
India played a central role in shaping Resolution 85, which expands Smart Sustainable Cities and Communities (SSC&C) to include smart villages, enabling rural digital development. It emphasises IoT solutions, capacity building, and public-private partnerships.
Resolutions 89 and 90 strengthen the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Alliance for Digital Development and the Global Innovation Forum.
2) WTDC 2025 Resolutions 45 & 84: Confidence & Security in ICTs
India guided updates to Resolution 45, focusing on the misuse of telecom networks, including spam, spoofing, and caller manipulation. It also calls for tools to improve SME-level cybersecurity and resilience.
Resolution 84 addresses mobile device theft and tampering, encouraging the sharing of global best practices and the development of stronger deterrence mechanisms.
3) WTDC 2025 Resolutions 09 & 62: Policy, Regulation, Networks & Spectrum
India contributed to Resolution 09, which promotes flexible regulatory tools, which aid in research and development, such as regulatory sandboxes, experimental spectrum, and support for next-generation technologies such as IMT-2030 (6G) and UAV/drone communications, as well as the customisation of the ITU’s Spectrum Management System for developing nations. It also provides guidance on spectrum valuation, awarding, leasing, and surrender norms.
Enhancements to Resolution 62 aim to address public misconceptions about EMF exposure, update the ITU’s EMF guide for various wireless equipment/sources of EMF, and expand public awareness of safe use of wireless devices.
4) WTDC 2025 Resolution 34: Emergency Telecommunications & Disaster Management
India strengthened Resolution 34, which promotes the use of emerging ICTs for disaster preparedness - including cell broadcast early warnings, alerts in local languages, GIS-based mapping of telecom infrastructure, and regional cooperation for cross-border disaster information sharing.
5) WTDC 2025 Resolution 66: Environment, Climate & Circular Economy
India contributed to Resolution 66, which encourages national strategies to reduce ICT-related emissions, raise awareness of e-waste, and strengthen cooperation on climate friendly digital practices.
6) WTDC 2025 Resolution 58: Diversity & Inclusion
Under Resolution 58, India supported measures to enhance digital accessibility for older persons and vulnerable groups, promoting universal, user-friendly digital environments.
DhruvStar Industry Insights: What it Means for the Telecom Industry
- Growing Demand for Secure & Trusted Digital Infrastructure: With a new global focus on cyber resilience, spam control, device security, and protection against telecom misuse, Indian telecom players may see rising demand for secure, trusted, and compliant digital infrastructure, opening opportunities in cybersecurity tools, caller authentication, and device-level security frameworks.
- Expansion of Rural & Smart Connectivity Solutions: The push toward smart villages, IoT-enabled services, and digital inclusion creates space for telecom operators and OEMs to co-develop rural connectivity solutions, low-cost IoT devices, and new models for community-level digital services.
- Opportunities in Emerging Tech: WTDC-25’s emphasis on IMT-2030 (6G), experimental spectrum use, and sandbox-based regulatory models provide opportunities for Indian telecom companies, startups, and research institutions to collaborate on next-generation technologies, develop testbeds, and shape early commercial pilots.
Sources
[1] PIB
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