The findings of the report indicate that the project must immediately build up a robust communication network. The existing infrastructure is not sufficient for the growing needs of the project like sharing information across project sites, wider reach to buyers, and providing access to the community.
Wireless radio relay based connectivity (WiFi or Wireless Fidelity) is the optimal and doable solution for the project, which will connect the major project sites and the surrounding villages and has the potential to provide a sustainable alternate means of livelihood. The Wifi network will seamlessly dovetail with the state governments proposal to set up a WiMax backbone, which is to be implemented over a period of two years.
Private sector companies or individual experts can easily provide the technical resources to build Wifi connectivity. The financial resources average out to about Indian Rupees 150,000, lump sum cost, per village. Financing for a part of these equipments is already covered in the existing budget line of the ULIPH project.
As an immediate next step, it is recommended to organize a hands-on demonstration workshop with active participation of the community, in the technical aspects of setting up the network, under the supervision of experts. The project also needs to set up an IT team, develop suitable MIS formats and applications, and address change management issues by orienting and training staff.
Read the full report at ENRAP.
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