The Sankhya Vahini project was conceived by the IT Task Force in September 1998 with the objective of establishing a high-speed data network in India for the benefit of educational institutions, public/private corporations, service providers, individuals etc. for learning, training research and other multi-media activities.
THE RISKS
Sankhya Vahini will be controlled by an American company (IUNet). After its formation, monitoring of information channels being conducted by the VSNL so far, will not be possible. International agencies will be able to monitor telephonic conversations, fax and e-mails. Will expose Indian security networks to western monitoring.
THE NETWORK
This network will be linked to the International University network (IUNet) being established by the Carnegie Mellon University in the US. With these linkages, the educational contents from leading American universities and global scientific institutions can be easily accessed.
THE INVESTMENT
The proposal envisaged setting up of a joint venture company with the DTS holding 45 per cent equity, IUNet 49 per cent, ministry of information technology 2 per cent and Indian educational institutions holding the rest of 4 per cent equity. Its estimated cost is Rs 1,407.56 crore over 10 years.
THE USES
Sankhya Vahini network can be used very effectively for long-distance learning, tele-conferencing, setting up universal digital libraries and hazard and disaster management. Another area of future potential is e-commerce where the Sankhya Vahini will provide the necessary platform for its rapid growth.