Upfront

TCS to launch low-cost PCs

As part of its social obligation of bridging the digital divide, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is planning to launch low-cost PCs in the country by the end of 2005. The PCs are expected to cost less than Rs 10,000. Apart from this, the company is also working on building software applications in 22 Indian languages. TCS is to launch an operating system, middleware, and applications which would be made available in Indian languages this year. F C Kohli, executive member, TCS, said that Linux is already available in 10 Indian languages.

“India has focused only on software exports and neglected the development of software in Indian languages. We at TCS have joined hands with some universities in the country to develop software in Indian languages,” he said.

AP mulls animation academy

To explore business opportunities in the global animation industry, the Andhra Pradesh government is contemplating the setting-up of an animation academy to train students in drawing and designing. The academy is expected to meet the growing demand for animation professionals in the country. It is also intended to teach animation techniques to rural artisans.

“The AP government is inviting foreign companies to set up their studios in the state. The government will offer quality infrastructure, a congenial political environment, and other forms of government support. Moreover, AP offers low cost of operations for prospective investors. Now the time has come for industry to look at moulding rural artisans and exploit their capabilities by providing the necessary training,” said Dr Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, chief minister, Andhra Pradesh.

According to Nasscom, the demand for animation is growing at 20 percent per annum, and challenges like infrastructure, funding and marketing need to be addressed.