(a) whether the Government have launched Community Internet System in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith their main features and locations where the above system has been installed, State-wise;
(c) the cost and the utility of the above system; and
(d) the time by which this system is likely to be installed in each State?
MINISTER OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY(SHRI PRAMOD MAHAJAN)
(a),(b),(c) and (d): With a view to accelerating the
socioeconomic development of the community in hilly areas of
difficult geographical terrain having poor infrastructural and
communication facilities in the North-East region of the country,
a shceme has been approved for providing connectivity at 487
block headquarters of all North East States and Sikkim by setting
up of Community Information Centres (CICs) within two years at an
estimated cost of Rs.220 crores.
A pilot project was launched in August, 2000 at an estimated
cost of Rs.15 crores by setting up 30 CICs in the aforesaid
states at sites selected by the State Government. Based on
the experience gained therefrom, CICs are to be set up at the
remaining 457 block headquarters of these States.