India roots for internet `root server’ to improve governance

India, with the third-largest internet user base in the world, has pitched for a major role in global internet governance and has sought to locate a `root server' in the country as well. The issue was discussed at the India-US cyber security dialogue and the US officials are reported to be favourably disposed to the idea.

At present, there are 13 such `root servers' catering for the world wide web traffic, 10 of which are located in the US, Two of these are in Europe and the remaining one in Japan - a disproportionate distribution of server capacity compared to user base.

Also, the 10 root servers in the US are mostly located in NASA, military research labs and universities.

A root name server, which is at the base of the internet, translates readable host names into IP addresses, letting the user get to the right portal link.

Root name servers are essential to name resolution, which is at the core of internet management.

India, however, has six mirror servers, which share the load. But, changes in the IP address only gets updated in root servers - a change in any one server automatically reflects in other root servers.

Leave alone the technological clout a root server could bring, for India with its net governance programmes, it is a political and social necessity as well. 

Also, New Delhi's acceptance of the US-backed stakeholders model on internet governance also demands that Washington diversify structures of internet management.

While the US officials have responded positively to India's suggestion, the US wants India to resolve it by actively discussing it with ICANN. Also, the US did not insist on having a fresh server instead of relocating an existing root server, say reports.

For the Narendra Modi government, which has elevated internet governance as a strategic priority, the setting up of an exclusive portal is key to the success of internet governance and all `Digital India' programmes.

The PMO has recently made it clear that issues related to the `Digital India' programmes will be taken by a standing committee headed by the deputy national security adviser. The committee will have relevant stakeholders, including the Department of Information Technology, which was the nodal ministry.

In meetings with US authorities, India is also reported to have expressed concern over the slow response of internet services such as WhatsApp and Facebook to Indian requests. It has also cited instances of inflammatory YouTube video causing serious law and order problems in the country in the absence of cooperation and better coordination.

Placing a root server in India will give India considerable clout in the internet governance structure besides prompting a major technological upgradation within the country.