Nasscom, DataWind start rural Internet pilot project

NASSCOM Foundation and DataWind Corporation, have started a pilot project to provide internet connectivity in the rural areas.

The project will initially provide Internet training programmes in Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal and Maharashtra.

This is on the backdrop of an agreement between NASSCOM foundation and DataWind to develop and provide low cost wireless computing and Internet connectivity for information and communication technology-based empowerment of rural India.

NASSCOM Foundation has also chalked out an action plan that will provide wireless Internet connectivity in the rural areas and will help in eliminating illiteracy and poverty.

DataWind, on its part will provide wireless access device, the PocketSurfer to the Foundation.

The project has been implemented in collaboration with Byrraju Foundation from AP, UNICEF and project associate from Medhak in AP, GRASSO from West Bengal, FIDR from Orissa, SS Mandal from Maharashtra, TFTP from Karnataka and NIT from Durgapur.

The aim of the project include improving the reach, enhancing base, minimise processing costs and increase transparency through electronic access of the state and district administration services to the rural areas.

This pilot project will be reviewed by an expert team in the next one quarter and shall pave the way for implementing information and communication technologies at grassroots levels.