The Digital Infrastructure Providers Association (DIPA) has announced significant changes in its leadership at its annual general meeting (AGM), marking a new chapter in its mission to advance India’s digital infrastructure landscape.
Prachur Sah, chief executive officer (CEO) and managing director (MD), Indus Towers, has been appointed as the new chairman of DIPA. Meanwhile, Dr Sushil Kumar Chaturvedi, currently serving as group CEO, Ascend Telecom, has been named the new vice chairman.
Sah brings over three decades of experience in telecom sector, with a strong track record in leadership, strategy, and innovation. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s telecom infrastructure landscape, contributing significantly to nation’s digital transformation journey. His expertise in tower infrastructure management and his vision for a digitally connected India have been instrumental in driving the expansion of 4G and 5G networks across the country.
Meanwhile, with over 37 years of global experience in the telecom sector, Dr Chaturvedi’s expertise spans across national and international telecom organisations. He served as an India telecom service (ITS) officer and director, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), where he introduced cellular services and optical fibre connectivity and oversaw privatisation of telecom. In addition, Dr Chaturvedi has been honoured with the President’s Medal (V.S.S.M) for distinguished telecom services.
Commenting on his appointment, Prachur Sah said, “I am honoured to lead DIPA at this crucial juncture in India’s digital journey. Our nation has already established itself as a global leader in 5G rollout and deployment, and we are now setting our sights on the 6G stack. The infrastructure providers category-I (IP1) sector is well-established and fully prepared to enhance the rollout of 6G in India. We are committed to supporting the Make in India initiative, ensuring that our digital infrastructure not only meets global standards but also contributes significantly to our nation’s technological self-reliance and economic growth.”
Furthermore, Sushil Kumar Chaturvedi, said, “India’s telecom sector stands at the cusp of a transformative era. Our vision extends beyond traditional telecommunications, encompassing emerging technologies and cross-sector collaborations. We see immense potential in areas such as internet of things, artificial intelligence, and smart city initiatives. DIPA will play a pivotal role in fostering an ecosystem that not only supports these advancements but also ensures their benefits reach every corner of our nation, bridging the digital divide and propelling India towards a truly digital future.”