India launches low-priced tablet computer

India will launch a tablet computer for as little as 46 dollars in a bid to provide students with access to the latest IT technology.

The Indian government on Wednesday held a ceremony in New Delhi to announce the device jointly developed by the Ministry of Human Resources Development and the country's institute of technology.

The computer is a 18-centimeter touch-screen tablet with Wi-Fi internet connection.

The unit price can be held as low as 46 dollars as the product will be assembled using parts made in South Korea and China.

The Indian government plans to encourage students to use personal computers by offering a half-price subsidy to students for purchasing the computer. It also says it plans to make the cheap computer available to consumers in general in November.

Human Resources Development Minister Papil Sibal says this tablet computer will bring about a better future for students.

While India continues to register steep economic growth, personal computers are not widely used in many local universities.

The government hopes the promotion of the low-price device will help improve the country's education system.

Wednesday, October 05, 2011 22:18 +0900 (JST)