Set to go on show over coming days at the National Mission on Education in Andhra Pradesh, the "Sakshat" laptop has been developed by scientists at the Vellore Institute of Technology, the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, and the Indian Institute of Technology in Madras.

Tool for distance learning

Although still seeking a commercial sponsor, the Sakshat has been designed to aid increasingly popular distance learning. The initiative is an essential part of a wider strategy to boost e-learning and kick start India's woefully under invested education system.

E-learning to support traditional education

Estimates suggest India needs a total of 1500 new universities - current number just 362 - if economic growth is to be sustained and wealth dispersed further. E-learning can reach further and quicker than traditional centers of education, at a fraction of the cost. Government backing means its political significance can't be under estimated on the run up to May national elections. R.P. Agrawal, Secretary of Secondary Education hopes costs can be further reduced and predicts that it will be available in 6 months.

Questions left to be answered

If the 2 Gb Sakshat makes it to production it will represent a considerable coup for India's R&D sector. The product would undercut the US$ 100, "Children's Machine", developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). In the process causing more problems - following break down of relations with Intel - for the One Laptop Per Child charity, supported by Nicholas Negroponte. Although Negropnte raises major questions, "I fear it is not serious. We'd love a $20 laptop, but the display costs more".

If successful it would also drastically undercut the "EeePC", made by Asustek in Taiwan, the first cheap, mini laptop launched worldwide, costing from US$ 200.

India to lead development of low cost technology

Providing it works and can be be produced at the correct price, the Sakshat forces the international market to once again reconsider India's R&D skills. Given India's sizable social problems, the country is well placed to lead development of low cost products and services with the potential to have a global impact.