ITU-APT Foundation elects Tilak Raj Dua as its Chairman

NEW DELHI: ITU-APT (International Telecommunication Union- Asia Pacific Tele community) during its 13th Annual General Body Meeting held on 9th December, hailed the demonetisation move by the Government of India as a right step and big leap forward towards digitisation of the Indian economy. The foundation also unanimously elected Tilak Raj Dua, Director General, TAIPA (Tower and Infrastructure Provider Association) as its chairman with immediate effect.

On the occasion, Anil Prakash, Secretary General, ITU-APT Foundation of India said ‘It brings us pleasure to appoint Mr. Tilak Raj Dua as the chairman of ITU-APT Foundation. Mr. Dua’s understanding of the Indian Telecommunication sector is exceptional and his contribution in policy making and regulatory has resulted in creating a healthy competitive environment in the industry. We wish him best of luck and extend supporting hand for his journey at the new position.”

Dua has an experience of over 35 years in the telecom sector and has held senior positions with corporates such as Bharti Airtel, COAI, Shyam Telecom Ltd. and Augere.

While supporting demonetisation, Prakash said “The demonetisation move would not only help India elevating its image in the world for the authentic and fair practices beside ease of doing business but would also help in the inclusion of masses in digital economy and putting resources in the right direction for robust growth of the country. India is poised to become a world leader.”

On the appointment, Dua, said “It has always been a pleasure for me to be associated with the foundation as the co-chair and now as the chairman. The role of foundation has been significant in promoting the expansion of telecommunication services, developing regional cooperation in areas of common interest, remarkable studies related to developments in telecommunication, technology transfer, human resource development and the exchange of information for the balanced development of telecommunication services,"

"I am excited to contribute with full of my capacities to make Digital India a reality by helping create a robust telecommunication in India. On other hand, demonetisation is the hallmark initiative to curb black money, controlling the counterfeit currency and limiting the illegal activities such as terrorism financing etc. Further, this will help improving nation’s image across the globe. Apart from this, the move has extended the scope of cashless economy in India which would need robust telecom infrastructure in order to empower people at the bottom of pyramid with telecommunication services. We support the move and are with the government," he added.