Datawind says ready to supply next Aakash tablet at Rs. 2,500 apiece

After completing supply of 1 lakh units of Aakash tablets to IIT Bombay for Rs. 2,263 apiece, Datawind said on Friday that it is ready to provide the next version of the device at a tentative price of Rs. 2,500 apiece.

"As per my information, the committee on Aakash tablets is looking to higher version of the device at Rs. 2,500 a piece and we are ready to match the price on order for every 10 lakh units," Datawind CEO Suneet Singh Tuli told reporters here.

When queried about alleged delays in supply of Aakash tablets under the previous tender, he said Datawind has supplied all tablets more than a month in advance.

"The deadline to finish supplies of Aakash tablet is around June 6 under the tender clause. We have done it by May 1 so we have complied with the norms," he said.

Datawind has recommended higher specifications for the next version of Aakash tablets which will include a SIM slot and enable users to make calls.

Tuli welcomed the Preferential Market Access policy norms which in general has been opposed by foreign companies.

The policy mandates government to procure electronic products, including tablet PCs, which should have at least 30 percent components made locally.

"We have set up an LCD touchscreen unit in Amritsar.

Therefore, Datawind will comply to the norms of 30 percent value addition in the product from India. I would like government to strictly implement it. It is good for the country and will encourage electronics manufacturing in the country," Tuli said.

He said that other companies will have to set up LCD units in India to meet PMA conditions.