G20 Digital Economy Working Group [UPSC Current Affairs]

The G20 Digital Economy Working Group, set to begin in Pune, will address crucial issues of cyber security and the adoption of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). The meeting, scheduled from June 12-14, 2023, will involve the signing of the Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) and discussions on various topics related to digital safety and security. In this article, you can learn more about the G20 Digital Economy Working Group, a topic that is relevant for the IAS exam especially since it is under India’s G20 presidency.

G20 Digital Economy Working Group Agenda

• Ministerial Declaration Drafting and Discussion:
  • The drafting of a ministerial declaration will commence during the Pune meeting.
  • Key topics for discussion include digital public infrastructure (DPI) and securing the digital economy.
  • A toolkit and awareness module will be developed to enhance understanding and awareness of these subjects.
• Focus on Digital Skilling:
  • Common recognition of digital skills will be pursued, enabling G20 countries to acknowledge certifications and skills across nations.
  • This framework will help address skill gaps in participating countries.
• Showcasing India’s Successes in DPI:
  • The meeting will highlight India’s achievements in the digital public infrastructure sector.
  • India’s notable initiatives such as COWIN, Aadhar-enabled payment systems, and Soil Health Card will be showcased.
  • The conference will demonstrate India’s efficiency in e-governance and present its global stack.
• India’s Dominance in Digital Transactions:
  • India accounts for 40% of the world’s digital transactions.
  • This statistic emphasizes India’s significant role in the digital economy.
• Participation of International Organizations:
  • In addition to nations, renowned international organizations such as UNDP, UNESCO, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will participate in the summit.
  • Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) will be signed between countries to explore cooperation in DPI and the digital economy.
• Global Exhibition on Digital Innovations:
  • A parallel global exhibition will take place, showcasing 14 experience zones related to digital identity, fast payments, e-governance, and more.
  • Some highlighted experiences include DigiLocker, Unified Mobile App for New-Age Governance, and Tele-Medical Consultation Experience.
  • The exhibition aims to demonstrate India’s progress and advancements in various digital sectors.

Conclusion: The G20 Summit in Pune focuses on digital safety and security, emphasizing cyber security measures and the adoption of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). The meeting will foster discussions, the signing of MoUs, and the development of a toolkit and awareness module. Additionally, the summit will address digital skilling, showcase India’s achievements in DPI, and feature a global exhibition highlighting digital innovations. The participation of international organizations adds valuable perspectives and opportunities for cooperation in the digital economy.

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