National Conference on E-Readiness Expectations of Rural Masses A three day conference on “E-Readiness of Rural Masses” was organized by NIC Bihar State Unit during 21-23 December, 2002 at Patna. The aim of the conference was to • Gain the knowledge and experience to understand the potential of information technology for rural application. • Learn how to deploy the modern technology for maximum returns and to meet rural expectations. • Apply techniques that improve efficiencies in development and enriches the mass at the grass root level. The event was attended by IT Experts and delegates from various Indian States and also included technical presentations on topics related to IT Applications in rural areas. The conference was addressed by important dignitaries including Dr.Sanjay Paswan, Hon’ble Minister of State for Communications and IT, Sh. Chandrika Rai, Hon’ble Minister of Science & Technology and Dr. N.Vijayaditya, Director General, NIC. Dr. Paswan, in his address, stressed on the fact that technology has played a vital role in defining the socio-economic structure and called upon everyone to work towards “Digital Integration” rather than Digital Divide. The role and contribution of NIC in promoting the IT culture among rural masses was highlighted, during the conference, by Dr.Saurabh Gupta, SIO Bihar.