Why in news?
The fifth edition of the India Internet Governance Forum (IIGF) concluded in New Delhi on 28 November 2025. Over two days, policymakers, industry leaders, technologists, civil society groups and youth delegates deliberated on how India can build a resilient and inclusive digital ecosystem.
Background
The IIGF is India’s national chapter of the United Nations Internet Governance Forum, established in 2021. It provides a multi‑stakeholder platform where governments, the private sector, academia and civil society develop shared principles for the evolution of the internet. According to UNESCO’s definition, internet governance involves the collective development and application of norms, rules and decision‑making procedures that shape the internet’s growth and use while upholding openness, human rights, privacy and linguistic diversity.
Theme and sub‑themes
The 2025 edition carried the theme “Advancing Internet Governance for an Inclusive and Sustainable Viksit Bharat”. Discussions were organised around three sub‑themes:
- Inclusive digital future: Exploring ways to ensure meaningful internet access for rural communities, women, persons with disabilities and other marginalised groups. Topics included last‑mile connectivity, community networks and digital literacy initiatives.
- Digital infrastructure for resilient growth: Examining how open digital ecosystems and public platforms can drive sustainable development. Sessions highlighted India’s digital public infrastructure, such as the Unified Payments Interface and Aadhaar, and emphasised data protection, interoperability and security.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) for people and planet: Debates on ethical AI, content moderation, climate‑friendly technologies and the need for responsible innovation to tackle societal challenges without entrenching bias or exclusion.
Key takeaways
- Trust and safety: Participants stressed the need for secure networks, robust cybersecurity practices and strong data protection laws to build public confidence in digital services.
- Multi‑stakeholder collaboration: Policymakers emphasised that the rapid pace of digital transformation requires inclusive dialogue. Government officials, private innovators and grassroots organisations must cooperate to develop practical norms for content moderation, encryption and internet governance.
- Youth engagement: The forum featured sessions for students and young professionals, recognising that the next generation must be empowered to shape the internet’s future and participate in policy debates.
- International alignment: India reaffirmed its commitment to a global, open internet while advocating for respect for national laws and cultural diversity. Participants highlighted that domestic regulations should align with global norms to ensure cross‑border cooperation.
Conclusion
The India Internet Governance Forum 2025 highlighted the growing complexity of governing an ever‑expanding digital domain. Its success lies in bringing together diverse voices to chart a future where connectivity is universal, digital infrastructure is resilient and innovation respects human rights and environmental sustainability. By nurturing a culture of open dialogue and collaboration, India aspires to become a global leader in shaping an internet that serves all citizens.
Source: Press Information Bureau
