Improved version of Aakash tablet on the anvil: Pallamraju

Improved version of the Aakash tablet is on the anvil after the successful launch of three versions, a "fantastic initiative" of the HRD ministry, HRD minister M M Pallamraju said at Kozhikode on Sunday. "It is a fantastic initiative by the ministry to develop Aakash Tablet, a mobile device that can be utilised by students anywhere. It was successfully tried out. The second and third versions have come out and the fourth version is on the anvil," he said. Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of a function at the Kozhikode District Congress Committee here, he said the performance of the tablets had improved with every successful version and the ministry is continuing efforts in this regard. "Where it has been a failure was we could not productionise the numbers that we wanted for whatever reason. Definitely we will look in to it,' he said. Referring to the education sector, Pallamraju said the Centre is formulating several projects for its improvement, chief among which was to start new higher educational institutions by including it in the 12th Plan and improve facilities in existing institutions. Pointing out that statistics showed about 23 crore children get preliminary education and 11 crore children high school education, he said the Centre's aim was to create a good atmosphere by raising educational standards in schools, colleges and in the higher education sector. Alongside, standards in polytechnics and employment oriented IT schools would also be improved, he said, adding the new generation has to be attracted to such institutions.A The ministry also planned to start more schools, higher education institutions and research centres, he said.