Speedy implementation of NDCP will help bridge the existing digital divide between rural Bharat and urban India and we can transform lives of all 1.3 billion citizens of India by delivering a Digital Future to All, Union Minister of State for Communications, Manoj Sinha said at an ASSOCHAM event held in New Delhi recently.

Speaking on the occasion, Sinha said that the Telecom sector is the pivotal force driving India's digital transformation.

Surge in data consumption and the rapid adoption of new technologies continue to re-define connectivity and digital engagement dynamics in India, he said.

As the largest data consumer and the second largest smartphone market, India is carving a new digital identity globally, said Sinha while inaugurating an 'ASSOCHAM 11th Telecom India here at New Delhi.

Government led initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, which is the world's largest financial inclusion programme, the recently launched Ayushman Bharat scheme, which is the largest social health insurance scheme in the world, Smart Cities Mission, National Skill Development Mission, Digital India, Make In India, etc. are today catering to the needs of all the sections of our society, the minister pointed out.

It is now critical to maintain the developmental momentum by strengthening the telecom sector, a core enabler for the socio economic progress of the country, added Sinha.