N Vittal, the recipient of Padma Bhushan and an IAS officer, has passed away

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Published on 7 August 2023 by

N Vittal

N Vittal, a distinguished IAS officer of the Gujarat cadre, 1960 batch, and recipient of the Padma Bhushan award, passed away in Chennai at the age of 85. His demise marks the loss of a visionary who played a significant role in laying the groundwork for India’s information technology sector four decades ago.

A Diverse Career

With a career spanning over 40 years, N Vittal excelled in various domains, including industrial administration, science and technology, and security. Notably, as the Secretary of the Department of Electronics from 1990 to 1996, he spearheaded policies that fostered the growth of the software industry, leading to the formation of the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI). Additionally, as the Chairman of the Telecom Commission, he played a pivotal role in liberalizing the telecom sector and securing the approval of the National Telecom Policy 1994.

N Vittal – An Advocate for Ethics

Beyond his contributions to India’s technological advancements, N Vittal was renowned for his advocacy of ethics and a corruption-free society. His book, “Corruption in India – The Roadblock to National Prosperity,” emphasized the detrimental impact of corruption on the nation’s progress and its impact on the underprivileged. As the Central Vigilance Commissioner (CVC), he gained valuable insights into bureaucratic and political dimensions of corruption, further fueling his commitment to combat this issue.

A Lasting Legacy

N Vittal’s passing leaves a void in the country’s leadership, but his legacy as a visionary leader and champion of integrity will continue to inspire generations. India will remember him for his invaluable contributions to the growth of the information technology sector and his unwavering dedication to promoting ethical governance.