APNIC 62nd Meeting Highlights India's Leadership in Internet Routing Security
Industry leaders and policymakers expressed strong optimism about India’s digital backbone, internet safety framework, and fast‑growing digital economy during the 62nd Asia Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC) session in Mumbai.
Joint Secretary Sushil Pal of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology described the internet as a fundamental strategic infrastructure that now drives the majority of government operations and plays an expanding role in national security and defence.
Pal warned that the rise in internet users and the proliferation of cutting‑edge technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing are intensifying cyber‑threat challenges. He highlighted that cybercriminals are adopting sophisticated methods to launch innovative attacks and fraudulent schemes.
In response, the government is strengthening cyber defences by collaborating with technology experts, with a special focus on improving internet routing security to prevent route hijacking and network outages. This effort is being coordinated closely with APNIC.
Devesh Tyagi, CEO of the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI), called the APNIC gathering a landmark event, noting its return to India after a twelve‑year interval and underscoring the country’s pride in hosting a premier global forum.
Tyagi explained that the broader internet community acts as a shared stage, giving Indian ISPs the chance to connect with overseas network operators and sending a clear message that India is committed to a safe, reliable, and inclusive internet ecosystem.
Rajesh Chharia, president of the Internet Service Providers Association of India (ISPAI), recalled the launch of the National Internet Registry in 2012, which accelerated the nation’s internet rollout. He said today’s internet penetration is at an unprecedented level, attracting global firms that view India’s massive consumer base and thriving digital economy as a hub of opportunity. Chharia expressed hope that APNIC will continue to host more events in India, fostering deeper collaboration between international and domestic digital enterprises.
Ken Huang, chair of the APNIC Executive Committee, stated that the Asia‑Pacific region has become the most active arena for global digital growth and technological innovation. He praised India’s tech‑supportive policies, investment in digital infrastructure, and promotion of AI as key factors that have transformed India dramatically over the last decade.