The 2nd ASEAN Digital Ministers meeting was held in virtual mode yesterday.The meeting was co-chaired by India’s Minister of State for Communications Devusinh Chauhan and Myanmar’s Minister of Transport and Communications Admiral Tin Aung San. India-ASEAN Digital Work Plan 2022 was approved in the meeting.
The Work Plan includes a system for combating the use of stolen and counterfeit mobile handsets and WiFi Access network interface for nationwide public internet. It also includes capacity building and knowledge sharing in emerging areas in Information and Communication Technologies such as Internet of Things, 5G, Advanced Satellite Communication and Cyber Forensics.
Addressing the gathering of Digital Ministers, Mr. Devusinh Chauhan emphasized that Information and Communication Technologies enable and strengthen democratic systems and institutions. He said this is done through enhanced engagement between citizens and the state. He said that the use of Information and Communication Technologies promotes free speech, human rights and the free flow of information and expands citizens’ opportunities to participate in decision-making process. He added that it has the potential to transform lives of people living in rural areas.
