18.6 During the Sixth Plan, the communication services, particularly the postal and
telecommunication services, will be extended to all parts of the country with a view to
subserve a balanced and sustained growth in the key sectors of development. Special attention
will be given to the development of communication facilities in rural areas including backward,
tribal and hilly areas in order to correct the persisting imbalances in the communications net work.
For the North-Eastern region, special measures will be aimed at strengthening the postal and
telecommunication facilities. (1980-85)
and it is during the 9th FYP (1992-97)[5] that terms such as tele-density and phone on
demand are mentioned and the country’s commitment to universal services unequivocally
spelt out.