In a pivotal moment during the Digital Economy Ministerial Meeting (DEMM) organised by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) under India’s G20 presidency, three key agendas took centre stage: Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), cybersecurity in the digital realm, and the development of digital skills.

A Global Consensus on DPI

Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the Minister of State of MeitY, emphasised the historic global consensus reached on DPI during his address to the media. He highlighted how India’s Prime Minister kickstarted the intensive digitalisation journey in 2015 with the launch of Digital India, leading to the creation of several DPIs. This digital infrastructure has since become a beacon for countries worldwide.

• DPI Definition and Framework: Chandrasekhar noted that, for the first time, the world is aligning on the definition, framework, and principles of DPI.
• India’s G20 Presidency Impact: DPI discussions have gained significant traction thanks to India’s G20 presidency, reinforcing India’s leadership role.

Mobilising Finance for APIs and Global Collaboration

India’s commitment to global digital inclusion is evident as it offers its India Stack as an open-source solution, available free of cost for other countries to adopt. This initiative aims to empower nations that are still on their digitisation journey.

• Memorandum of Understanding (MoU): India has signed an MoU to provide the India Stack to other countries, fostering ecosystems of innovation globally.
• Bridging the Digital Divide: This initiative helps countries lagging behind in digitisation gain a foothold and progress.

Cybersecurity in the Digital Age

Chandrasekhar underscored the importance of cybersecurity for businesses worldwide, especially in the context of the G20. Ensuring the protection of businesses and digital assets is a shared responsibility.

• Global Concern: The G20 Digital Economy ministers engaged in extensive discussions on the critical nature of cybersecurity for all nations.
• Collective Effort: Cybersecurity is seen as an essential issue that requires collaboration among nations to safeguard their digital economies.

Digital Skilling for a Post-COVID World

Digital skills have taken centre stage in a world that has rapidly transitioned into a digital-first paradigm due to the COVID-19 pandemic. India’s focus on nurturing digital talent has resonated during these discussions.

• Nurturing Youth Skills: India’s commitment to creating digital skills for its youth aligns with the evolving needs of a post-COVID, increasingly digital world.
• International Collaboration: Countries are eager to partner with India to cultivate a future-ready, digitally skilled workforce prepared to address the opportunities and challenges of the next decade.

In conclusion, India’s initiatives in DPI, cybersecurity, and digital skilling have not only gained global acceptance but have also positioned India as a trailblazer in the digital economy. As the world grapples with digital transformation, India’s leadership and collaborative approach are paving the way for a more inclusive and secure digital future.