Rural ICT networking – Gyan Sanchar …See WEB SITE

	NCHSE is managing another prestigious project on Rural Communication network established by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). CIDA, IBM and their Indian counterpart BSNL appointed NCHSE as the local service provider for the project of ICT application in M. P. The project pilot has been located at Hoshangabad (in Babai Tehsil) and Harda districts (in Khirkia Tehsil). The project offers rural connectivity through Information and Communications Technology (ICT) linking over 30 centres in villages. There are latest and modern IT and electronic equipment deployed at these centres called Gyan Sanchar Kendras.
The main objective of the project is to disseminate knowledge and useful information to villagers through modern means available right in villages. Special portal based services are provided such as accessing mandi rates, weather forecast, knowledge on latest agricultural practices, animal husbandry, etc. E-governance services are also enabled via the network on issue of khasra nakal (land records), grievance redressal, application for income and domicile certificate, etc. Besides, there is a special broad band based facility of video conferencing with about 12 villages for direct interaction between government officials and villagers. The Kendras also offer IT training to village youths and children. The project emphasises ensuring benefits to women and people from backward classes. The project has succeeded in obtaining participation of various government and private organizations for supporting or sponsoring various services; these include District Administration, Department of Agriculture, Veterinary, Health, NCDEX, Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilizers Co. Ltd., State Bank of India, Emani products, Videocon etc. Thus many services other than those based on ICT are also offered by the Kendras.	Villagers Using Computers at Kendras
	The Kendras are run by a local person whose selection is done on recommendation of Village Panchayats. Rigorous training on IT skills, communications, account keeping etc. has been given to them so that they are able to manage Kendras independently. Today, the Kendras are serving the village population same as information kiosks in an urban centre would do. People of all ages, come to the Centre and are taking advantage of the facilities. The villagers are given services on charge basis, which helps raise necessary income for the Kendras to run.
NCHSE’s role is to provide backend support to the Kendras. The training, mentoring and assistance for technical maintenance are arranged by NCHSE. Liaisoning with sponsors and government departments is also done so as to ensure that services are run smoothly. Even the marketing and publicity support is provided to these Kendras. In other words, NCHSE is playing role of a friend, philosopher and guide to the operators. This is first ever such a big venture which BSNL and NCHSE together are trying to nurture. There are plans to expand the network to other districts and states also.