World Telecommunication Day 2025, Theme, History In India, Celebration

World Telecommunication Day 2025 will focus on digital cooperation and inclusive growth. Join the global celebration of World Telecommunication Day 2025 on May 17.

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May 03, 2025

World Telecommunication Day 2025, Theme, History In India, Celebration

World Telecommunication Day 2025, officially known as World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD), is observed annually on May 17. This global event aims to raise awareness about the potential of the Internet and other information and communication technologies (ICTs) in transforming societies and economies. The day also underscores the critical need to bridge the global digital divide, making digital innovation inclusive and accessible for all.

In 2025, the importance of World Telecommunication Day is more pronounced than ever, as the world marks both 160 years of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and 30 years since the Beijing Platform for Action, a milestone for gender equality.

World Telecommunication Day 2025

World Telecommunication Day 2025 will be observed on 17 May 2025 (Saturday), marking the 160th anniversary of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). This global observance highlights the transformative power of digital technologies and raises awareness about the importance of bridging the digital divide, especially for women and girls. 

With the theme focused on “Why gender equality in digital transformation matters”, this year’s celebration aims to accelerate progress toward inclusive and equitable access to Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).

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World Telecommunication Day 2025 Overview
Aspect Details
Event Name World Telecommunication Day 2025
Date 17 May 2025
Established By International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
Observed Since 1969
Occasion 160th Anniversary of ITU
Theme for 2025 Why gender equality in digital transformation matters
Purpose To raise awareness about the importance of ICTs and bridge the digital divide
Key Focus Area (2025) Promoting digital inclusion for women and girls
Global Importance Accelerates digital development, innovation, and sustainable growth
Related Initiative World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS)

Also Read: Important Days in May 2025

World Telecommunication Day History

The roots of World Telecommunication Day date back to 17 May 1865, when the first International Telegraph Convention was signed in Paris, leading to the establishment of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Since 1969, this day has been observed annually to commemorate ITU’s foundation and its continuing contributions to global connectivity.

In 2005, recognising the expanding importance of the Internet and ICTs, the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) urged the United Nations to declare 17 May as World Information Society Day. By 2006, both observances were merged into World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD), strengthening the combined focus on telecommunication and digital transformation.

World Telecommunication Day 2025 Theme (Gender Equality in Digital Transformation)

The World Telecommunication Day 2025 theme is “Why Gender Equality in Digital Transformation Matters”. This theme draws global attention to the persistent digital gender divide, which continues to limit the potential of women and girls in the digital world.

Key facts underscore the urgency

  • Globally, 70% of men use the Internet compared to 65% of women.
  • In Least Developed Countries (LDCs), only 29% of women use the Internet.
  • Women lag in access, affordability, digital literacy, and leadership in tech sectors.
Also Read: List of International National Days 2025

These inequalities not only harm women’s potential but also hinder economic growth, innovation, and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The WTISD 2025 theme calls for urgent and collective action to ensure equitable access to digital resources and opportunities for all genders.

Telecommunication History in India

The telecommunication history in India spans nearly 170 years, beginning in 1851 when the first landline services were established near Kolkata by the British. By 1881, formal telephone services had been introduced, and in 1883, they were integrated with India’s postal system.

The telecommunication in India spans over many years, evolving through several transformative stages:

Stage 1: Pre-1990 – State-Owned Era

  • 1851: The British introduced the first landlines in Bengal.
  • 1881: Telephone services were launched.
  • 1985: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) was separated from postal services, accelerating telecom governance.

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Stage 2: 1990–2000 – Entry of Private Players

  • 1994: The National Telecom Policy opened the market to private players.
  • 1995: Cellular services began in Kolkata.
  • 1997: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) was formed to ensure fair practices.
  • 2000: TDSAT was created for dispute resolution.

Stage 3: 2000–Present – Golden Era & Re-definition Age

  • 2005: Surge in mobile users with 2G.
  • 2008–2012: The Advent of 3G and 4G networks revolutionised mobile connectivity.
  • 2016 onwards: Rapid growth in smartphone penetration, data consumption, and digital services.
  • 2022–2025: Expansion of 5G and digital infrastructure marks a new chapter.

Today, India comprises

  • 1.17 billion telecom subscribers
  • Tele-density over 90%
  • Expected contribution of 8% to GDP from the telecom sector
  • Creation of 4.5 million new jobs

Despite rapid growth, the sector still faces challenges like regulatory hurdles, customer service demands, and affordability concerns. Nonetheless, India’s telecom landscape remains a global case study in digital democratisation.

Bridging the Digital Divide

World Telecommunication Day 2025 places strong emphasis on bridging the digital divide, especially for women and marginalised communities. With 2.6 billion people still offline globally, of whom a large majority are women and girls, the digital divide is a major development barrier.

Key strategies to bridge this divide include

  • Expanding broadband access in rural and remote areas.
  • Making internet services more affordable and inclusive.
  • Promoting digital education and skill-building programs.
  • Increasing representation of women in STEM fields and tech leadership roles.

Why is World Telecommunication Day Celebrated?

The answer lies in both history and progress. World Telecommunication Day commemorates the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention and the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 1865. Since then, ITU has led the development of global communication standards and networks, contributing significantly to worldwide digital advancement.

The purpose of celebrating this day is to:

  • Promote awareness of how ICT can improve lives and spur sustainable development.
  • Highlight efforts to bridge the digital divide, especially for underserved communities.
  • Reflect on technological progress and future innovations in the telecommunications sector.

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Conclusion

World Telecommunication Day 2025 serves as a global call to action to bridge digital divides, empower underserved communities, and ensure that digital transformation is inclusive, equitable, and sustainable. From its historic origin in 1865 to its evolution as a day celebrating the power of ICT, this day remains vital in promoting connectivity and innovation.

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World Telecommunication Day 2025 FAQs

The World Telecommunication Day 2025 theme focuses on "Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development."

It is observed annually on May 17 to highlight the importance of communication technologies.

The day promotes awareness of telecommunication development and its role in bridging the digital divide.

It is organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to promote global digital access.

Governments, industries, and academic bodies host events and discussions on telecommunication awareness and innovation.

Its aim is to boost digital inclusion, encourage ICT policy development, and support sustainable growth.

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