A major talking point in the Indian Prime Minister; Shree Narendra Modi ji’s slogan for Indian development has been, IT + IT = IT. “Indian Talent” plus “Information Technology” equals ” India Tomorrow”.
India is currently home to about 200 million internet users. While this number may seem large, it pales in comparison to our population. The lack of infrastructure and awareness are key factors in this low number. To increase internet penetration and promote development in India, this plan is crucial.
Narendra Modi’s plan aims to empower domestic talent utilizing the best available technology. A major obstacle in realizing this goal is the lack of connectivity and infrastructure in large parts of India.
Microsoft has come up with a solution to this problem. Microsoft has proposed the use of “White Space” – the unused spectrum – between two TV channels, to provide free internet connectivity to all.
Using this technology Microsoft aims to provide free last mile connectivity to over 250000 gram panchayats in India. Last mile connectivity refers to the final leg of the telecommunications network, the part that actually reaches the customer.
The main advantage of using this technology is that we can leverage the already established TV network. Hence, eliminating the need to invest heavily in the set-up of a new telecommunications Network.
Wifi traditionally has a range of about 100 meters. Whereas, the 200 – 300 Mhz spectrum which Microsoft aims to utilize has a range of 10 KM. Microsoft has suggested that ” White Space” technology can support speeds of up to 16Mbps, which is 8 times the average Indian connection speed of 2 Mbps.
” White Space” transmission is a tried and tested technology which has been successfully used in many parts of the world like USA and Singapore. The White Space spectrum in India belongs to Doordarshan and the Government and is only partially utilized.
Microsoft’s plan to provide free last mile connectivity to all is the cornerstone in the Modi governments ambitious ” Digital India” plan. This plan was cleared by the Modi Government on August 30th. It will provide a digital infrastructure to all in India, thereby empowering the population in a step towards digital governance.
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The iPhone Help
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