NEW DELHI: Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia chaired a roundtable with State IT Ministers and Secretaries at the 9th edition of India Mobile Congress (IMC2025), after IMC 2025 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Highlighting the crucial role of telecommunications in Bharat’s growth and the strong impetus on taking connectivity to the last mile, the Minister urged States to adopt the Central RoW Rules, 2024, implement single consolidated DISCOM bills, and collaborate closely on digital infrastructure expansion. He emphasized that initiatives under the National Broadband Mission, including streamlined Right of Way approvals, leveraging Optical Ground Wire (OPGW), and fast-tracking 4G/5G and broadband rollout, are transforming connectivity across the country.

“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,” the Minister said.

Scindia also sought suggestions and actionable inputs from State IT Ministers to ensure the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) can address them effectively. He took note of all grievances and concerns raised during the interaction and shared them with the Department and CMD, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), who was also present on the dais.

The Minister cited examples from States like Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Sikkim, Karnataka, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Odisha as models for replication and innovation. He underscored that digital infrastructure is not just about connectivity but is also a bridge to education, livelihoods, and opportunity for every citizen, particularly in remote and rural areas. He called for interstate knowledge-sharing, pilot projects, and measurable KPIs to accelerate digital inclusion and create a resilient, future-ready Bharat.

Scindia also highlighted India’s transformation into the world’s third-largest digital nation, powered by affordable data, robust broadband growth, and rapid technological innovation. Stressing the importance of inclusive growth, he pointed to the opportunity for States to lead in areas like AI, 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,” Scindia added.