What is the news-

• Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India was unanimously elected as co-chair of the Digital Innovation Board of International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

What is the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)?

• The ITU is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) responsible for issues related to information and communication technologies (ICTs).
• It was established in 1865 as the International Telegraph Union, making it one of the oldest international organizations.
• In 1932, the organization was renamed the International Telecommunication Union to reflect its broader mandate.
• It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
• Its functions include:

1. Allocate global radio spectrum and satellite orbits,
2. Develops the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies seamlessly interconnect, and
3. Strives to improve access to ICTs to underserved communities worldwide.

Membership:

• ITU’s membership includes 193 member states (countries) and over 900 private sector entities, including telecommunications companies, equipment manufacturers, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
• India has been an active member of the ITU since 1869 and has been a regular member of the ITU Council since 1952.

PYQ:

2020: In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of

1. Digital security infrastructure
2. Food security infrastructure
3. Healthcare and education infrastructure
4. Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure

Practise MCQ:

The global telecom body International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has recently elected India as the co-chair of the Digital Innovation Board. Which of the following statements about ITU is/are correct?

1. It is the United Nations specialised agency for Information and Communication Technologies.
2. Its entry is open to all countries, Private Companies as well as institutions.
3. India has been a member of ITU since 1869.

Select the correct option:

1. All are correct
2. Only 3
3. 1 and 3
4. 1 and 2

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