Chirag
APIGA India 2025
APIGA was not only something I discovered later in my life, but was actually a life-changing opportunity that helped me navigate through India's Internet ecosystem and understand its governance. It helped me break down how smaller components such as TLDs (Top-Level Domains), domain names and networks work, how different parts of the Internet infrastructure function, how data moves across networks and jurisdictions, and how important the multistakeholder model actually is. I came to understand that the Internet is not governed by a single stakeholder, but through the participation of governments, the private sector, technical communities, civil society, academia and, importantly, youth. Youth not only holds a bigger role to play, but their opinions and participation can actually help shape the future of the Internet.
I also began to understand how data is transferred through secure networks from one place to another, how phishing and cyberattacks can affect users, how cyberbullying needs to be tackled, and why cybersecurity and data protection are becoming increasingly important.
India, being one of the largest populations in the world and an increasingly important centre for technological advancement, is viewed by many countries as an important stakeholder in the development of the global digital ecosystem. As India continues to develop and change its approach to technology and Internet Governance, I began to understand how local networks and digital policies in India can have a much wider influence and how data is governed, protected and transferred across the world.
Professionally and personally, I grew in an amazing way through this experience. I started teaching and imparting awareness to young people, not only in my college but also to students graduating from school, about how AI and technology play a bigger role in our lives and how we, as users and future Internet guardians, have a responsibility to protect and shape the digital environment around us. I conducted workshops and attended several conferences where I spoke about my journey and what APIGA taught me. I also participated in debates and discussions about what changes Internet Governance in India should include and explored possible solutions to emerging challenges.
APIGA made me realise that Internet Governance is not merely a technical subject; it connects technology with policy, rights, security, development, inclusion and the everyday lives of people. Just like our environment, the Internet and our data are also important resources that need to be protected and responsibly managed at this stage.
Young people should not remain passive users of the Internet. We have a voice, a responsibility and an opportunity to participate in the conversations that will determine what the Internet looks like for generations to come.
