In its bid to support implementation of Government’s flagships schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), DBT (Direct Benefits Transfer) via Aadhaar-linked bank accounts, Digital India and Make in India, Mait in association with Intel and Datamini unveiled TPOS7 ‘Janunnati’ Pad.
The touch-enabled mobile device with integrated fingerprint scanner device was launched by Niti Aayog CEO, Amitabh Kant at a New Delhi based hotel recently.
The Janunnati Pad, a first-of-its-kind touch-enabled mobile device comes with integrated STQC-certified fingerprint scanner for Aadhaar authentication. It can be used to help in the implementation of key e-Governance initiatives namely DBT through its in-built fingerprint scanner, payments card reader and barcode scanner.
Kant said the Government’s focus is on DBT across the board and key to that programme is need of a device like this having biometric features. “We must understand that a machine reduces cost of transactions,” he said, adding, “We need to provide subsidy but there should be no leakages”.
During a press briefing, Mait and Intel representatives told scribes the tab can also be deployed in the PMJDY, to extend banking services to the rural and urban poor; make wage payments linked to Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS); deliver subsidised foodgrains to BPL families via the e-PDS (Public Distribution System) and monitor public health services under the National Health Mission (NHM) among many others.
Executive Director, MAIT, Anwar Shirpurwala, said, “We will always promote ideas that address the needs of the masses. The Janunnati pad has been designed and developed in India, thus contributing directly to achievement of the goals envisaged under the government’s Make in India program.”
“Intel actively collaborates with the government, educational institutions and civil society organisations to empower local communities through the use of technology products and platforms. The launch of Janunnati pad is another step towards supporting the vision of Digital India aimed at expanding the reach and deliver secure e-Governance services to end users,” said Ms Debjani Ghosh, Vice President, Sales and Marketing Group and Managing Director, South Asia – Intel, and President, MAIT.
Managing Director, Datamini, Pitamber Ahuja said, “Government’s futuristic vision reflected through the Digital India and Make in India programs augurs well for the overall improvement of the ecosystem in the country. We firmly believe the timing is apt for such a revolutionary product to be introduced in the country that can address the emerging needs for custom-built, application-specific enterprise class tablets in the Indian as well as export markets”.
