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ICANN85 Community Forum: A Significant Gathering for a Safer Internet

The ICANN85 Community Forum, held in Mumbai from March 7-12, 2026, serves as a pivotal event organized by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) in collaboration with the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. This significant gathering brought together stakeholders from around the world to deliberate on how to promote an open, secure, inclusive, and resilient Internet within the global ecosystem.

A Platform for Collaborative Dialogue

The official opening ceremony featured an array of prominent governmental officials and leaders from the Internet sector. Key figures included Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary of the Indian Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology; Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Chief Secretary of Maharashtra; and ICANN Board Chair, Tripti Sinha. Their presence reflects the importance of the forum as a space for fostering dialogue among various sectors involved in Internet governance.

Shri S. Krishnan emphasized the critical role the Internet plays in today's world, supporting economies, public services, innovations, and daily life. He stated, "As digital usage continues to rise, it's vital we work together to ensure that the Internet remains open, secure, resilient, and inclusive." This sentiment echoes among all participants, highlighting their collective aim to contribute meaningfully to the future of the Internet in India and beyond.

Addressing Current Challenges

During the event, discussions focused on the increasingly complex dynamics of global connectivity. Officials underscored the pressing need for stability and integrity in Internet operations—issues that are even more critical as the geopolitical landscape evolves. The leaders expressed a united commitment to transparency, accountability, and the promotion of a safe Internet reflective of humanity's diversity.

"The original mission of Internet governance demands our relentless focus now more than ever," Sinha advised. "The community thrives when diverse viewpoints come together, especially from regions often overlooked in these conversations."

A Week of Insights and Progress

The forum featured over 200 sessions aimed at addressing core issues surrounding the secure and stable operation of the Internet. Topics included the evolution of the Domain Name System, cybersecurity practices, and the forthcoming expansion of generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs). The conversations were designed to highlight the significance of the multistakeholder model in Internet governance—a collaborative approach where ICANN members work to develop policies, implement solutions, and ensure ongoing operations of a reliable and interoperable Internet.

During the week, attendees engaged in robust discussions that stressed the importance of collective efforts in making the Internet accessible and equitable for all users around the globe. Discussions served not only to analyze current challenges but also to foster innovation and development across various regions.

The Role of ICANN and NIXI

ICANN's mission remains centered on contributing to a stable, secure, and unified global Internet. Essential to that mission is the coordination and support of unique identifiers that allow seamless interactions online. Founded as a non-profit organization in 1998, ICANN continues to serve the global community by ensuring that Internet addresses are unique and correctly allocated.

The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI), established under the auspices of India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s Internet infrastructure. It facilitates efficient exchanges of domestic Internet traffic and manages the country's code top-level domains (.IN and .भारत), while promoting the use of Internet services throughout India.

Through its initiatives, NIXI aligns its goals with India’s aspirations for digital growth, aspiring to create a safe and resilient Internet ecosystem that supports widespread access to technology.

Conclusion

The ICANN85 Forum illustrates the collaborative spirit essential for the ongoing development of a secure Internet for all. As stakeholders work toward a shared vision, the insights gained from this gathering will contribute to shaping the future of Internet governance, ensuring that the online realm remains a space of innovation, security, and inclusivity. Participants left Mumbai not only with actionable strategies but also with a renewed commitment to their roles in safeguarding the integrity of the Internet.