India Nominates M. Revathi for Top ITU Radiocommunication Post
Based in Geneva, the ITU is the UN’s specialised agency overseeing the global management of radio frequencies and satellite orbits—critical for technologies like 5G, 6G, and space-based broadband. If elected, Ms. Revathi would become the first woman and the first representative from ITU Regions E (Asia/Australasia) and D (Africa) to lead the Bureau, representing over half of the global population.
With nearly three decades of expertise in spectrum and satellite orbit regulation, Ms. Revathi is internationally recognised for her work on equitable spectrum access. Currently serving on the ITU’s Radio Regulations Board, she has been a strong advocate for inclusive and balanced use of global telecom resources—echoing India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family).
Her candidacy also reflects India’s growing stature in global telecom circles, following the country’s successful hosting of the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) 2024 in New Delhi. The event witnessed record participation from over 150 countries and the adoption of eight landmark resolutions—affirming India’s commitment to a secure, inclusive, and forward-looking digital future.
About the ITU: Founded in 1865, the ITU is the oldest UN agency and comprises 194 member states and over 1,000 industry players. It operates through three key sectors—ITU-T (Standardisation), ITU-D (Development), and ITU-R (Radiocommunication). The Radiocommunication Bureau plays a vital role in managing the finite radio spectrum and satellite orbits to prevent interference among global telecom services, ensuring smooth operation of GPS, aviation, broadcasting, weather tracking, and more.
India’s bid comes at a time when global consensus on equitable access to emerging technologies has never been more important