India launches world’s cheapest tablet PC

IANS

New Delhi, 05 October 2011: Aiming to bridge the digital divide in the country, India Wednesday launched the world’s cheapest tablet computing device Akash costing Rs.2,250.

 

"It is a milestone in history. It will bring a paradigm shift in education delivery," Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Kapil Sibal said while launching the product which is a result of five years of research.

 

"The device is not only for Indian students but for those of the world. We aim to bring the cost down to less than $10," he added. Sibal said the device would allow students in the rural areas to have access to technology that will define the 21st century.

 

A seven-inch screen HCL tablet sells for around Rs.11,000 in the Indian market.  As part of a government project, the device would be made available to higher education students at Rs.1,125 with the HRD ministry bearing 50 percent of the cost.

 

The technology for the low cost access device was developed and manufactured jointly by Indian Institute of Technology, Rajasthan at Jodhpur and DataWind Ltd.

 

The government will initially buy 1 lakh units.