New Delhi : An Indian delegation led by Shri Mukesh Kumar, Deputy Director General (International Relations), Department of Telecommunications (DoT), participated in the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council 2026 meeting held in Geneva, Switzerland, from April 28 to May 8.
During the meeting, the Indian delegation, along with the Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations in Geneva, took part in discussions on key issues related to global telecommunications and digital cooperation, highlighting India’s growing role in the digital and telecom sector.
India presented its proposal to host the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-2030), which was accepted by the ITU Council. The development marks a significant milestone in India’s expanding role in shaping global telecom and digital policy discussions. The proposal is expected to receive formal approval during the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 scheduled to be held in Doha, Qatar, in November this year.
The delegation also participated in deliberations on various subjects, including ITU regional presence, membership matters and organisation of ITU events.
To strengthen support for India’s candidatures in upcoming ITU elections, India hosted a networking reception at the ITU premises on April 30, 2026, attended by representatives from 69 Member States. During the event, India showcased its candidature for re-election to the ITU Council and for the post of Director of the Radio communications Bureau (BR). India’s candidate for Director (BR), Dr. Revathi Mannepalli, presented her vision for the future of the ITU radio sector.
On the sidelines of the Council meeting, the Indian delegation also held 15 bilateral meetings with member countries to garner support for India’s candidatures and deepen engagement with ITU member states.
On May 8, Union Minister for Communications Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia addressed the Council virtually and announced India’s voluntary contribution towards implementation of World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) resolutions related to 6G, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Public Infrastructure and sustainable digital transformation.
The government said the contribution is expected to create future opportunities for India to play a greater role in global telecom standardisation and digital development initiatives.
The ITU Council, comprising 48 elected Member States, serves as the governing body of the International Telecommunication Union and oversees its strategy, policy and financial management. India has been a member of the ITU Council since 1952.