Guided by the theme “Advancing Internet Governance for an Inclusive and Sustainable Viksit Bharat”, the forum explored three key sub-themes: Inclusive Digital Future, Digital Infrastructure for Resilient and Sustainable Growth, and AI for People, Planet, and Progress. Participants discussed topics such as rural connectivity, open digital systems, cybersecurity, India’s digital public infrastructure, data protection, content moderation, ethical AI deployment, and opportunities for young innovators.
The forum hosted four panel discussions and twelve workshops, providing a platform for sectoral, policy, and community perspectives. Global and national experts from the United Nations Internet Governance Forum, Meta, Google Cloud, CCAOI, and academic institutions contributed insights on shaping India’s digital policies in line with international best practices.
Union Minister of State for Electronics & IT, Shri Jitin Prasada, in his inaugural address, emphasised the importance of collaboration for digital progress. “Our focus is to give every citizen safe, affordable, and reliable access to the internet. Strong 5G coverage, solid digital public systems, and a consent-based Data Protection Act are creating an environment that protects people while opening doors for new opportunities,” he said. Shri Prasada further highlighted that cyber risks demand a shared responsibility between government, industry, academia, and civil society.
Shri Sushil Pal, Joint Secretary at MeitY, noted that India’s digital journey has been transformative, with the India Stack serving as a population-scale model for both developing and developed nations. He stressed that trust, safety, and resilience are paramount as India navigates cyber threats, misinformation, and technology misuse, requiring coordinated actions to maintain an open and secure internet.
Dr Devesh Tyagi, CEO of NIXI, said, “IIGF embodies the multi-stakeholder model, where every voice matters. Special interest groups on internet protocols, domain names, and numbers are building sustained expertise and fostering informed decision-making.” He also highlighted the NIXI Internet Intern Scheme, which has reached over 10,000 students and facilitated global opportunities for participants in policy frameworks.
Throughout IIGF-2025, discussions reinforced the importance of universal and meaningful access, robust digital infrastructure, and trust through coordinated standards. The forum concluded with a collective commitment to a safer, more inclusive, and resilient internet for India and the world.
Established in 2021, the India Internet Governance Forum serves as the national chapter of the United Nations Internet Governance Forum. IIGF provides a platform for government, industry, civil society, technical community, and academia to collaborate on equal footing, guided by a 14-member committee representing diverse sectors.
