Odisha Govt offers unpaid cabinet rank to its tech advisor Sam Pitroda for three years

Pioneer of Indian Telecom Revolution Sam Pitroda, who has been appointed as the technology advisor for Odisha, will work without remuneration for the three years that he has been appointed for.

As per the terms of engagement released by the state government, Pitroda will initially be engaged for three years. He has been given the rank and status of a Cabinet minister and will not be paid any remuneration and insurance during that period. He will advise the state government for formulation of strategies and policies to be adopted to achieve the goal of making the state a forerunner in e-governance and electronic system design and manufacturing (ESDM).

He will also guide the government for the development of IT/ITes and ESDM sectors in the state. Resources on advocacy to attract national and foreign investment will also be considered by the government.

“We have come out with the notification for appointment of Pitroda as the technology advisor He will be instrumental in bringing and domestic and foreign investments in IT and Electronics sectors.

The state government would arrange all resources and extend cooperation to him,” electronics & IT minister Pranab Prakash Das said.

Pitroda, who was born in Titlagarh in western Odisha, is credited with having laid the foundation for India’s telecommunications and technology revolution in the 1980s. Earlier this year, he was also named to the US’ National Academy of Engineers, considered to be one of the highest honours in the profession.