Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday recalled the speedy evolution of cyber space from the bulky mainframe computers to hand-held smartphones and gadgets of today.
Inaugurating the fifth edition of the Global Conference on Cyber Space (GCCS) in New Delh, he said, "We all know how cyberspace has transformed the world in the last two decades. The seniors would recall the bulky mainframe computers of the seventies. E-mails and Personal Computers brought a new revolution in the nineties. Change continues perhaps in a faster phase now.Cyberspace has transformed the world in the last few decades. Expressions like IOT and AI have now become common."
The two-day conference is being attended by delegates of nearly 120 countries. The Information Technology Ministry expects the participation of over 10,000 delegates in it.
Mr. Modi said digital technology has emerged as a great leveller. It was helping in shaping future of businesses and economy. It had created a flat world. It was possible for a developing nation like India to compete with developed nations, only because of technology.
'Digital India is world's largest technology-led programme'
He said:
"Digital technology has led to efficient service delivery, governance, improving access from education to health. The government is committed to empowerment through digital access. Digital India is the world's largest technology-led programme. The JAM [Jan Dhan accounts, Aadhaar, Mobile-enabled services] trinity has greatly helped reduce corruption and increase transparency. India has saved $10 billion in subsidies by removing middlemen."
"The Narendra Modi mobile app has deepened my connection with citizens.
"Cyber space remains key area of innovation. It should also be an enabler for the differently-abled. Cyber space technology must be an enabler.
"Internet is inclusive by nature, not exclusive. Today's discourse is set by Facebookers, Tweeple and Instagrammers. But quest for open and accessible Internet often leads to vulnerabilities. We need cyber warriors who will remain alert. Cyber protection should be made attractive and viable job option.
"Nations must also take the responsibility to ensure that the digital space does not become a playground for the dark forces of terrorism and radicalisation. Information sharing and coordination among security agencies is essential to counter the ever-changing threat landscape.
"We can walk the fine balance between privacy and openness on one hand, and national security on the other. Together, we can overcome the differences between global and open systems on one hand, and nation-specific legal requirements on the other."
(With inputs from Yuthika Bhargava)
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