A tablet PC priced at Rs. 1,500 ($ 30) was launched in India recently. The PC has been designed specifically for students and will be introduced in the market in 2011. Human Resources Minister Kapil Sibal unveiled the device and said, "If more companies decide to manufacture a similar device, prices will come down automatically."

The device is a single unit system with a touch screen and a built-in keyboard along with 2GB RAM, Wi-Fi connectivity, USB port and powered by a 2-watt system.

The initial idea was to create a low-cost PC that costs Rs. 500 ($ 10) and though the final product costs three times more than planned, it is affordable for its customer base. The ministry hopes that the prices will come down once the product enters the mass production phase. The HRD Ministry will be distributing the device in institutions.