The Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu Centre, marked World Telecommunication and Information Society Day with a seminar centered on the theme of bolstering resilience in a connected world. The core message emphasized the critical need for robust cybersecurity systems and resilient digital infrastructure to navigate the ever-increasing reliance on technology.
The event drew participation from engineers representing diverse departments and organizations, alongside senior members affiliated with the institution. Dr. Piyush Singla, Secretary of the IT Department for the J&K Government, officiated as the chief guest, while Ajay Khajuria, a Professor-of-Practice at the Model Institute of Engineering and Technology and previously the Marketing Head of Bharti Airtel J&K, served as the keynote speaker. Anil Verma, FIE Chairman of the Jammu Centre, presided over the function, guiding the day’s discussions and deliberations.
As per information available with TahirRihat.com, Verma underscored both the opportunities and risks inherent in an increasingly digital world during his address. He cautioned against an over-reliance on artificial intelligence, suggesting it could potentially stifle human thinking and innovation. Furthermore, Verma advocated for the development of mechanisms designed to fortify cybersecurity defenses and moderate dependence on technology, ensuring a balanced and secure approach to digital integration.
Khajuria highlighted the pivotal role of global internet connectivity, noting that submarine cables handle approximately 95% of internet traffic, thereby underscoring their importance. He emphasized the necessity of safeguarding these crucial arteries of global communication by advocating for the establishment of multiple fiber routes, the implementation of backup power systems, and the strategic placement of geographically separated data centers. These measures, Khajuria asserted, are vital to ensuring uninterrupted service delivery.
The seminar also featured presentations of technical papers by B L Rawal, Gopal Krishan Sharma, Ranjeev Sawhney, and Joy Ganjoo. Their contributions focused on various facets of digital resilience and the enhancement of telecom infrastructure. These experts collectively supported the designation of telecom services as essential, advocating against blanket shutdowns and pushing for the creation of a dedicated Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) for J&K. Additionally, they stressed the importance of implementing safeguards to mitigate the impact of floods and other natural disasters on telecom infrastructure.
During his address to the assembly, Dr. Piyush Singla outlined several governmental initiatives aimed at enhancing e-governance, expanding online citizen services, strengthening cybersecurity, and streamlining digital administration. He also announced that the J&K State Data Centre had successfully obtained ISO certification, signifying its adherence to international standards of quality and security.
The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Avneet Gupta, the Honorary Secretary of IEI Jammu Centre, acknowledging the contributions of the speakers and participants in fostering a productive dialogue on the critical issues surrounding digital resilience and cybersecurity in an interconnected world. The discussions and insights shared during the event are expected to inform future strategies and initiatives aimed at creating a more secure and robust digital ecosystem in the region.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.