Perhar described the 85 graduates of APNIC 60’s training workshops as “the future of our industry,” during the Workshop Graduation and Social.

The APNIC Elected Leaders series celebrates the journeys and contributions of individuals who have stepped up to serve in volunteer leadership roles, helping to advance Internet operations across the Asia Pacific region. Through their stories, we hope you’ll gain insight into what motivates them, feel more connected to our community, and be inspired to get involved and help shape the future of the Internet.

Roopinder Singh Perhar’s career spans decades of service in government, the corporate sector, and the Internet community. From building economy-wide networks to shaping policy and nurturing emerging leaders, his journey illustrates the intersection of technology, governance, and community. He is currently serving the Asia Pacific Internet community as the APNIC Executive Council (EC) Secretary until March 2027.

Perhar’s entry into the Internet industry was driven by curiosity.

“I came across messages about some international developments in 2005 and asked what they were about. I was told there was an organization called APNIC that allocates IP addresses — that was all the information we had,” he recalls.

“My question was: If this international organization exists and we take IP addresses from them, they must have a structured organization. How do we best work with them?”

As Secretary of the Internet Service Providers Association of India, he took the initiative to lead engagement with APNIC and attended the first APNIC meeting in Bali.

Building networks

As Chief Operating Officer of Tulip Telecom Ltd from 2004 to 2008, Perhar led one of India’s largest private network projects. He established a nationwide MPLS VPN covering over 1,140 locations and set up data centres in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. He also championed last-mile wireless technologies to extend Internet access into rural areas.

His work wasn’t always just about technology; often, it focused on the human side. That focus on people carries over into the Internet community, where many affectionately call him ‘Colonel’, a nod to his 26 years of service in the military and the leadership lessons he brings from that time.

“In the defence forces, leadership is the purest form. You’re not just managing people, you’re leading them. You know each person and their families, and you motivate them to follow you, even into danger,” he says.

Perhar’s influence extended into telecom and Internet policy. He served on the Next Generation Networks Committee of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India from 2006 to 2008. He contributed to the Bureau of Indian Standards committee on safe radiation standards for broadband and mobile operators from 2006 to 2008.

Within ISPAI, he worked to empower smaller ISPs with sustainable business models, enabling them to spread Internet access into rural areas. He was also instrumental in advocating for India’s National Internet Registry (NIR) and in hosting the first combined APNIC and SANOG meeting in India in 2007.

Perhar was also the founding Secretary of the ISOC Delhi Chapter in 2006. It is now a bustling community.

Building the next generation

Perhar sees one of his key drivers as advancing the next generation of Internet leaders. Newcomers are critical to the community, he says, and encourages them to combine their technical expertise with policy awareness.

“When meetings happen near you, attend them, learn, interact, and show your organization the value. That’s how you gradually build your career and your impact in the community.”

“Newcomers should come from both technical and regulatory backgrounds. The Internet is highly technical, so while many come from that field, we also need around people with an interest in policy and governance,” he says.

“You may come in as a fellow, but make sure you’re actively networking — make contacts, join mailing lists, read and contribute to them. Be visible and stay engaged.”

Connecting the future

As President of Netplus Broadband Services Pvt Ltd, Perhar deployed hybrid technologies such as MEN, GPON, and DOCSIS to create high-performance networks. He also worked towards connecting remote villages and underserved areas.

“The Internet is constantly evolving. Governments change positions, technology changes, and new standards emerge. We must stay updated, understand what is coming in the future, and be ready to lead your community forward,” he says.

“Technology also changes rapidly. For example, AI will multiply traffic manyfold. We have huge research in Quantum technologies underway, AI and Quantum Computers together will change our lives, networks and Internet traffic in ways we do not understand yet. Standards are to be developed, and we need people who understand how they will affect networks, resilience, and security in the foreseeable future. Program committees must find the right experts to present the most relevant topics, so the community is prepared and stays ahead.”

Reflections on the EC

Perhar emphasizes that whether leading organizations, designing networks, shaping regulatory frameworks, or mentoring young Internet professionals, an enduring commitment to the Internet community is what’s required of our community leaders.

“As EC members, we must, of course, have a strong understanding of law, finance and financial management, human resources, policy and regulatory frameworks, strategic planning, and the international communities connected to our work — the skills and experience necessary to effectively oversee an organization like APNIC.”

“But leaders also must be curious about the intersection of advancements — such as AI, quantum technology and advanced cryptography, and the resulting regulatory challenges inherent in these advancements. This opens people’s eyes to the possibilities of the future,” he says.

“Our role is to open imaginations to what the future holds, to prepare the next generation, and to make sure our community stays ahead. That’s the kind of leadership that’s needed in today’s Internet ecosystem.”

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