World Telecommunication and Information Society Day was observed
Rourkela : World Telecommunication and Information Society Day was observed by the Institution of Engineers (India), Rourkela Local Centre, NIT Campus, Rourkela. The event was conducted in a hybrid mode, both online and offline, on the topic “Digital Lifelines – Strengthening Resilience in a Connected World”. The speaker for the occasion was Prof. Manish Okade, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela. The programme was coordinated by the Honorary Secretary, Er. Himansu Satapathy. The meeting was chaired by Chairman, Er. Diptankar Mahapatra, who delivered the welcome address. The Honorary Secretary briefly introduced the speaker and invited Prof. Okade to deliver his lecture.
In his presentation, Prof. Okade highlighted that in today’s digitally driven world, communication networks, data systems, and online platforms have evolved into essential “digital lifelines” that sustain economies, governance, healthcare, and everyday life. The theme, “Digital Lifelines – Strengthening Resilience in a Connected World,” underscores the vital importance of reliable, secure, and resilient digital infrastructure in ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of services, particularly during crises such as natural disasters, cyberattacks, and system failures.
For a country like India, home to hundreds of millions of internet users and one of the world’s most advanced digital payment ecosystems, resilient digital systems are fundamental to inclusive growth and national stability. From enabling seamless real-time transactions through UPI to supporting telemedicine, online education, e-governance, and emergency response systems, digital technologies are now deeply integrated into both urban and rural life.
Strengthening these digital lifelines requires the development of robust infrastructure, comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks, seamless interoperability across systems, and sustained efforts to bridge the digital divide to ensure equitable access for all citizens. It also demands close collaboration among governments, industry stakeholders, and communities to create systems capable of withstanding disruptions, adapting to evolving challenges, and recovering rapidly from crises.
As digital connectivity becomes as indispensable as physical infrastructure, building secure, resilient, and inclusive digital ecosystems is no longer optional—it is essential for safeguarding societies, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring continuity in an increasingly interconnected world.
The presentation was followed by an engaging interactive session involving industrialists and academicians. Subsequently, Er. Mahapatra presented a certificate of merit and a memento to Prof. Okade in recognition of his insightful contribution. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the Honorary Secretary, Er. Himansu Satapathy. A total of 22 members and guests participated in the event, both online and offline.
Reported by Kunja Bihari Rout
