Bhubaneswar, 07 January 2016 (OdishaLIVE Bureau): Sam Pitroda, eminent technocrat, who brought telecom revolution in India during Rajiv Gandhi regime, will act as advisor to Odisha Government in the field of information and technology. Pitroda will be given status of a Cabinet rank Minister to Odisha Governement. He would give advice in preparing the blue print in the field of IT and telecommunication in Odisha.
It would not be out of place to say that Odisha would celebrate its centenary in 2036 and State Government is augmenting its idea and planning for ‘Vision 2036’ document in which information and technology will play a crucial role. Pitroda will impart through his able guidance exclusively for success of this mission. Initially Pitroda will officiate in the chamber at OCAC.
State IT Department had sent a proposal to Pitroda and the green signal has been given to the media after Pitroga given his consent.
Though hail from Gujarat, Pitroda was born and brought up in the remote Titilagargh in Odisha where he had spent his childhood. Recently Pitroda published his autobiography ‘Dreaming Big – My Journey to connect India’ which was released in Bhubeneswar by Naveen Patnaik, Chief Minister.
Though known for his close proximity with Gandhi family, Pitroda has not directly connected with political activities, though he was given responsible position in the cabinet during the congress regime. He was chief architect of telecom revolution during Rajiv Gandhi era. He was first taken over as chief of ‘Knowledge Commission’ and then headed ‘National Innovation Council’ during Manmohan Singh regime.
Pitroda stepped down from his office soon after the NDA Government came to power in 2014.
His appointment in this important position in Odisha Government has sent a wave of wonderment in the national level and Naveen Patnaik has certainly been successful in brushing this masterstroke.
