New Delhi, Dec 5 (ANI): Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday emphasized on the need to develop strong domestic manufacturing base in electronics and telecommunications with an aim to avoid difficulties in financing huge imports. Singh, while inaugurating the 8th edition of 'India Telecom 2013', said that telecom sector has contributed significantly to country's economic growth and has created valuable employment opportunities. During the conference, Singh also said that telecommunications has the potential to reduce socio-economic disparities. Singh also said that the government aimed to provide reliable and affordable broadband access to rural and remote areas.