New Delhi, 07 October (H.S.): The 10th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC) began at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in New Delhi on Wednesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will formally inaugurate the event on Thursday. Scheduled to continue until October 10, the event will feature discussions on new experiments and innovations in 6G, artificial intelligence (AI), satellite communications, cybersecurity and digital technologies.

This year’s theme for IMC is “Scale Without Boundaries”. The event is witnessing the participation of delegations from more than 100 countries, over 150,000 participants, more than 300 exhibitors and partners, and around 500 startups. More than 400 companies will showcase their products and technological innovations. The event is being jointly organised by the Department of Telecommunications and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI).

The four key pillars of IMC 2026 are Srishti, Samvardhan, Sashakt and Suraksha. Under Srishti, the focus is on next-generation technologies such as 6G, AI-powered telecom networks, edge and cloud computing, quantum communications and semiconductors. Samvardhan will focus on the commercial applications of 5G, satellite communications, direct-to-device connectivity, telecom manufacturing and robotics.

Under Sashakt, the focus is on the sustainable expansion of digital infrastructure, green telecom, energy efficiency and e-waste management. The Suraksha pillar will address cybersecurity, digital trust, data privacy, responsible AI, prevention of spam and cyber fraud, as well as the protection of undersea internet cables.

Ahead of the IMC, the Prime Minister met members of the GSMA Board. He emphasised the need for regular alert messages to protect people from cyber fraud and called for effective mechanisms to identify the original sources of deepfakes and AI-generated content. The Prime Minister also stressed the need for globally harmonised rules for emerging technologies. GSMA members praised India’s rapid expansion of 4G and 5G services and its robust digital infrastructure, and expressed their willingness to collaborate in the fields of 5G, 6G, AI and satellite internet.

A special conference on 6G is also being organised as part of the IMC. The conference will discuss 6G standards and spectrum requirements. Following the rapid expansion of 5G in India, emphasis is now being placed on the development of next-generation mobile technology and India’s participation in shaping global standards.

Satellite communications is another major focus of the conference. Discussions will centre on the potential of bringing satellite connectivity directly to mobile phones through direct-to-device technology, as well as the prospects for satellite internet services in India.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar