This is one news which left me with a feel good, “joie de vivre” kind of sensation for a long time even after I read about it. Renowned scientists from Bangalore and Madras have developed the bargain basement computers, whose unique low power design allows them to be charged with just 2 watts of power input. This makes them ideal for solar or dynamo powered application which will be a boon for remote areas in India where supply is a problem. This is however, not the USP of this marvelous product. This Wi-Fi capable notebook is available at an unbelievable price tag of £7, which is something incredible even in this time of financial crunch and economic slowdown!

There aren’t a lot of details about the specifications other than the fact that they will offer wireless for internet access and 2GB of memory, but the rock bottom price tag is indeed very inviting. In a country like India this will definitely revolutionize the entire concept of E-learning, which is still in a very nascent stage. In fact, ministers plan to connect 20,000 colleges through this path breaking initiative, and a prototype will be unveiled this week that cost around £14 approx. When the machine goes into full production it will be available at half the price.

However, many people are skeptical about the whole project, and consider this to be a publicity stunt just to attract the voters. Whatever the real reason maybe, it is indeed a wonderful initiative which will go a long way in educating the people of India, especially in remote, rural and inaccessible places. Let us all keep our fingers crossed and fervently pray that this project sees the light of the day, and does not get shelved like innumerous previous schemes and proposals which the government announces when the election approaches, and conveniently forgets about them after the results are declared!