(a) whether IIT Rajasthan has made a better and more
efficient Aakash-2, the world’s cheapest computer, after
making improvements in the Aakash-1;
(b) if so, the details thereof, alongwith the salient
features of the Aakash-2;
(c) the details of the companies which are
manufacturing/propose to manufacture this gadget;
(d) the time by which it will be available in the market;
and
(e) the other steps being taken to popularise this gadget
amongst students?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SHRI KAPIL SIBAL)
(a) to (e): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) to (e) OF THE LOK
SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 198 ASKED BY SHRI RAJU SHETTI,
HON’BLE MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR 07.12.2011 REGARDING AAKASH-2
(a) No, Sir. However, Government endeavours to develop
Aakash with enhanced features at the same or lower prices,
depending on user feedback and advancement in technology over
a period of time, by pooling technical expertise available in
the country in various institutions, including IIT Rajasthan,
in collaboration with industries, and other research
institutions.
(b) to (e) Do not arise in view of the above.