Underlining the role of Information Technology in social transformation and improving of service delivery systems, UT Administrator General (Retd) Dr S F Rodrigues inaugurated the e-Revolution, 2009 conference in the city on Thursday. Based on the theme “Transforming Region: Harnessing Technology for Inclusive Growth”, the conference is being jointly organised by the Chandigarh Administration, Government of Punjab and Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), with support from various organisations like NASSCOM and TIE.

Citing data from a recently released Mckinsey report, Pramod Bhasin, NASSCOM chairman and Genpact CEO, said that India has an advantage over other nations due to its demographic profile and the entrepreneurial skills of its population. If the IT potential is tapped, said Bhasin, the Indian IT sector will be able to register at least 5 per cent more growth.

Lauding Chandigarh for its strong social infrastructure, educational facilities and safe environment, Bhasin said that it could be the next Singapore.

Lamenting that the IT industry is presently employing barely 8 to 10 per cent of graduates for lack of skills, Bhasin emphasised the need for an updated curriculum and industrial training to hone the entrepreneurial skills and talent of the young populace.

Others present on the occasion included Dr Omkar Rai, senior director, STPI; Sanjay Kumar, secretary, Information Technology and Finance, Chandigarh Administration; S S Channy, principal secretary, Industries and Commerce, Government of Punjab and S C Aggarwal, chief secretary, Government of Punjab.

Amit Chandra, partner, Barings India, suggested the need to reach out to the masses through mobile phone connectivity.

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