NWC NewsDesk, June 15 2007, 1600 hrs
West Bengal is establishing common service centers (CSCs).
smartBridges, a provider of standards-based fixed outdoor wireless networking equipment and SREI, an infrastructure equipment, infrastructure projects and renewable energy products financing company, are combining their expertise to provide low-cost technology enabled service centers here.
As per the agreement, smartBridges will provide wireless infrastructure and project expertise to set up 4937 CSCs in 14 districts of West Bengal while SREI will manage these centers and develop a self-sustaining business model.
The state was evaluating other vendors such as Reliance Communications, 3i-Infotech and Wire & Wireless India Ltd.
"In smartBridges, we have a partner with a serious commitment to R&D and rural connectivity project implementation expertise. smartBridges wireless products have the right blend of cost, performance and reliability to meet the challenges of setting up CSCs on a large scale" said Sabahat S Azim, VP, Strategic Initiatives, SREI.
These CSCs will serve as a revenue tool for village entrepreneurs as well as several self help groups. While providing additional employment, services like VoIP, eEducation, eMedicine and other technology based solutions will also be implemented to improve the quality of life of the rural population.
"The concept of CSCs is that there need not be any more migration from rural to urban areas in search of a better life. Through this project every CSC village will be equipped with modern communication tools brought about by a wireless network solution. The fact that you live in an Indian village will not be of any disadvantage to you anymore,” said Dr. Y R Rao, MD, smartBridges India.
The CSCs are set to be operational within 12 months.
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