India and US: A New Era of Collaboration Under PM Modi and President Trump

As the United States, led by President-elect Donald Trump, and India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's third term, enter a transformative era, the potential for collaboration between the two nations is immense. Shashi Shekhar Vempati, former CEO of Prasar Bharati, highlighted this in his opinion column, emphasizing the importance of understanding India's transformation under PM Modi for American policymakers and citizens.

Shared Challenges and Opportunities

Both India and the US, rooted in freedom and democracy, face challenges like safeguarding free speech and combating misinformation. Vempati noted that India, under PM Modi, has focused on digital inclusion, showcasing technology as a democratizing force. The two nations can lead in harnessing media, technology, and governance innovations to uphold democratic values.

Technological Innovations

PM Modi's initiatives like Digital India and the Unified Payments Interface have revolutionized public service access. His 2047 roadmap aims to position India as a leader in the global democratic order. Amid global challenges, India invests in technologies to secure its democratic foundations, collaborating with the US on projects like the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies.

Direct-to-Mobile Broadcasting

Vempati sees potential in technologies like Direct-to-Mobile broadcasting (D2M) using the ATSC 3.0 standard. This technology, pioneered in India, delivers content directly to devices without internet, ideal for regions with limited connectivity. It can transform communication and strengthen the relationship between governments, media, and citizens.

Strengthening Democracy

By integrating ATSC 3.0 and D2M, India and the US can counter misinformation and promote free speech. These technologies enhance digital access, bridging urban-rural divides. A joint task force could create ethical standards to ensure content integrity, leveraging India's digital expertise and US innovation.

Global Leadership

India and the US can lead global efforts to defend democracy against foreign interference. By supporting democratic technology ecosystems, they offer alternatives to digital authoritarianism. India's role as a model for the Global South is emphasized, with joint investments in AI and next-gen connectivity securing leadership in global innovation.

As Trump begins his term, the collaboration potential between India and the US is unprecedented. Technologies like ATSC 3.0 and D2M can address shared challenges, emphasizing free speech and democratic resilience. Vempati sees this convergence as an opportunity to redefine democracy for the 21st century, creating a shared vision of democratic and technological leadership.