India Setting Global Benchmarks in Telecom: Jyotiraditya Scindia
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia urges States to adopt RoW Rules, implement single DISCOM bills, and accelerate digital inclusion.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 8th Oct: Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia, chaired a high-level roundtable with State IT Ministers and Secretaries at the 9th edition of India Mobile Congress (IMC2025), inaugurated earlier today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Addressing the gathering, Scindia highlighted the transformative role of telecommunications in driving Bharat’s growth and emphasized the need to expand connectivity to the last mile. He urged States to adopt the Central Right of Way (RoW) Rules, 2024, implement single consolidated DISCOM bills, and collaborate closely on building digital infrastructure. The Minister noted that initiatives under the National Broadband Mission—such as streamlined RoW approvals, leveraging Optical Ground Wire (OPGW), and fast-tracking 4G/5G and broadband rollout—are accelerating connectivity across the nation.
“India’s telecom journey is no longer just India-centric; it is setting global benchmarks. Our role as governments must evolve from regulators to facilitators, ensuring that digital inclusion reaches every citizen,” Scindia said.
During the discussion, Scindia actively sought suggestions from State IT Ministers to ensure the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) could address challenges effectively. He also took note of concerns raised during the interaction and shared them with the Department and CMD, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), who were present at the roundtable.
Citing examples from States such as Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Sikkim, Karnataka, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Odisha, the Minister called for replication of innovative models and interstate knowledge-sharing. He stressed that digital infrastructure is not merely about connectivity but also serves as a bridge to education, livelihoods, and opportunities, particularly for citizens in remote and rural areas. He urged the implementation of pilot projects and measurable KPIs to accelerate digital inclusion and create a resilient, future-ready Bharat.
Scindia also highlighted India’s emergence as the world’s third-largest digital nation, powered by affordable data, robust broadband growth, and rapid technological innovation. He stressed that inclusive growth presents States with opportunities to lead in areas such as artificial intelligence, data centres, and digital skilling.
“This is Bharat’s moment. If we work as equal partners—Centre and States together—we can bridge the digital divide, create millions of new opportunities, and make India a global digital powerhouse,” the Minister concluded.
