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Dewang was not only the torch bearer of the IT revolution, he was the ideal example of an
individual who formed the critical link between the era of bullock carts and snake charmers
of the past with today’s cybermarts in the country. His personality weaved together the
qualities of charisma, professionalism, modernity and vision. He dreamt of taking India to
heights never seen before in the IT and Telecommunications domains.
One of his greatest qualities was his ability to weave his thoughts with appropriate
communication skills. God had bestowed special qualities to him in this regard.Wherever
and whenever he spoke, the audience used to be mesmerised. He had this uncanny ability
to address any demographic profile. He could even address people from villages and get
them to respond favourably to the ongoing IT revolution in the country. He spoke a
language which everyone could understand. At the same time, he was at his best when he
addressed an international audience. He used his persuasive skills prolifically to encourage
them to view India as an IT and Telecom investment destination.
Dewang was a great visionary; he had a dream to break the shackles of the “digital divide”
in India. He was extremely committed to this belief. He had even coined phrases and
slogans to match his unflinching belief.His vision was not limited to any particular field in
IT and Telecom. To his credit, he outlined the awareness about Information Technology
keeping in mind a time frame and target audience.He was the ideal linking bridge between
the Government and the Industry.What amazed me always was his intense optimism. For
every problem given to him, he had pragmatic solutions.The Government often turned to
him for advice and I must admit we were never disappointed.
I had the privilege of interacting with him very closely. Whenever we travelled together
abroad, one was comforted by his presence. He not only indulged in hard selling India, he
was also a true son of the soil. On many occasions, he used to call upon his counterparts to
objectively view the new India in the making. He single-handedly and skillfully countered
the best in the world. His presence always strengthened my belief that Dewang was a
“
One Man Army”. I always used to say that unofficially Dewang was the real IT Minister
of India.
It is extremely heartening to note that NASSCOM is compiling a publication on Dewang.
I think it is a befitting tribute to a person who left no stone unturned in projecting and
profiling the IT revolution in India and across the globe. From my personal experience
and interaction I can only say that Dewang was an institution in himself. It is extremely
difficult for anyone to fill the void that has been caused by his untimely demise. All I can
say is that an institution never dies. Dewang will always remain close to my heart. He may
not be physically present, but I am sure, he is somewhere to help and guide us whenever
we are in need.
n
Pramod Mahajan
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs,
Communications and Information Technology,
Government of India
NEW DELHI AUGUST 2002
