Sam Pitroda

Sam Pitroda, renowned as the Father of India's Computer and IT Revolution, played a pivotal role in spearheading India's technological advancements. Born in Titlagarh, Odisha, to a Gujarati family who was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi's principles, consequently, Pitroda and his six brothers were sent to Gujarat to imbibe Gandhian philosophy.

With a vision for modernising India, Pitroda served as an advisor to Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, driving the computerisation initiatives in the country. During this time, he led efforts to expand digital telecommunications, including the establishment of the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and advisory roles on various technology missions.

Subsequently, Pitroda ventured into entrepreneurship, founding and chairing several successful ventures such as C-SAM and Wescom Switching. He holds approximately 100 technology patents and has been actively involved in nurturing startups and delivering lectures worldwide. Additionally, he served as chairperson of the Smart Grid Task Force.

Returning to India in 2004, Pitroda focused on bolstering knowledge institutions and infrastructure. He chaired the National Knowledge Commission from 2005 to 2009, making significant policy recommendations across various sectors. His expertise led to his appointment as advisor to Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on ICT in railways and public information infrastructure.

Pitroda's contributions continued to expand as he assumed roles such as Chairperson of the National Innovation Council, Chancellor of the Central University of Rajasthan, and Chairperson of Alpha-En Corporation. He also founded organisations like the India Food Bank and the Global Knowledge Initiative, emphasising the importance of social welfare and global collaboration.

Additionally, Pitroda's influence extended to international platforms, where he served as a founding Commissioner of the United Nations Broadband Commission for Digital Development and Chairperson of the International Telecommunication Union’s m-Powering Development Board, advocating for the use of mobile technology in empowering developing nations.

Throughout his illustrious career, Pitroda's dedication to technological innovation and social progress has left an indelible mark on India's development trajectory, earning him global recognition as a pioneering figure in the field of telecommunications and information technology.