Ram Mohan, an Indian-American technology visionary and widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the multilingual Internet, will be inducted into the prestigious Internet Hall of Fame. The recognition celebrates individuals whose efforts have fundamentally shaped the Internet’s global growth and accessibility.
Originally from Chennai and educated in Manipal and Trichy, Mohan has built a career around advancing inclusivity and strengthening digital infrastructure. His relentless work in creating a multilingual online space has earned him worldwide respect, positioning him as a transformative figure in the Internet’s evolution.
Between 2004 and 2018, Mohan spearheaded a mission to revitalize India’s country code, the .IN registry, working closely with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI). Under his guidance, the .IN domain became a key pillar of India’s digital presence, empowering businesses, organizations, and individuals to build an online identity on a global scale.
One of his most groundbreaking achievements was leading the effort to integrate India’s official languages into the Internet’s root system. This milestone made it possible to launch .BHARAT in 22 languages, ensuring that millions could access the web in scripts they speak and read every day. By breaking language barriers, Mohan not only expanded Internet access but also helped bridge the digital divide for countless communities.
Beyond his work with domains, Mohan founded the Universal Acceptance Steering Group (UASG) to advocate for equal treatment of all domain names and email addresses, regardless of script or language. He also launched the Coalition on Digital Impact (CODI), focusing on driving responsible and equitable digital transformation worldwide.
For Mohan, this honor goes beyond personal recognition. It stands as a tribute to innovators who merge technology with cultural inclusivity, ensuring the Internet evolves as a space for everyone. His induction is also a proud moment for India, reflecting the country’s significant role in shaping the global digital landscape.
The official Internet Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place virtually on September 17, marking a historic celebration of Ram Mohan’s lifelong dedication to building a more open and accessible Internet.
