SUBMARINE CABLES RESILIENCE:  INTERNATIONAL RELATION

NEWS: International Advisory Body Formed to Strengthen the Resilience of Submarine Telecom Cables

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?

Submarine cables are vital for global connectivity, carrying over 99% of international data, with India playing a significant role. The International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience, launched by ITU and ICPC, aims to safeguard and enhance the resilience of this critical infrastructure.

Submarine Cables and International Advisory Body: 

Submarine Cables:

  • Definition: Fiber optic cables laid on the ocean floor, connecting countries and continents.
  • India’s Role:
  • Hosts 17 international cables and 14 landing stations in cities like Mumbai and Chennai.
  • Total capacity (2022): 138.606 Tbps (lit capacity) and 111.111 Tbps (activated capacity).
  • Significance:
  • Backbone of the global digital economy, carrying 99% of international data exchange.
  • Support critical services like e-commerce, financial transactions, and global communications.

International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience:

  • Purpose:
  • Enhance resilience of undersea cables to safeguard global connectivity.
  • Address challenges like climate risks, aging infrastructure, and increasing data traffic.
  • Functions:
  • Ensures uninterrupted data flow for economic stability and commerce.
  • Meets at least twice a year to consult on international policies.

International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC):

  • Founded: 1958.
  • Mission:
  • Enhance the security of undersea cables.
  • Facilitate exchange of technical, legal, and environmental information among stakeholders.

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2081003