Indian Govt. culls Datawind from Aakash project: Does this solve the problem?

The Indian Government has set out to ensure that the second, upgraded version of the world’s cheapest tablet is manufactured without a glitch and is made available for Rs. 2,500/- or $ 50/- as originally promised. With all the problems it has faced with the original tablet’s manufacture, it is looking to replace Datawind, its producer, with another tech giant to oversee the production of the new device.

The first batch of the Aakash tablets was plagued with technical snags and system imperfections. Datawind is also being held responsible for not meeting delivery deadlines and for shabby customer service. Though the company did expand its manufacturing units and spruced up its customer service, it looks like it was still unable to meet the mark set by the Government.

Dropping Datawind from the Aakash contract might be the obvious answer to the Government’s problems, but a number of other measures need to fall into place for a more permanent solution. A thorough testing and analysis of the manufacturing capabilities and customer service platforms of the new manufacturer needs to be carried out. On the other hand, a transparent bidding process will ensure that the most capable manufacturer is awarded the Aakash tender.

Tight deadlines need to be enforced in order to ensure that the tablet hits the retail market as promised. If need be, the deadlines can be reworked before production begins. A greater co-ordination between the IITs and the tablets manufacturer will put an end to the ever escalating blame game.

The idea behind the production and distribution of the low-cost Aakash tablet is a noble one but a lot will go into making it a reality. Dropping Datawind from the equation is the first step of many that will ensure that the project stays on course.