A small-scale unit based in the state of Gujarat in India calls it an ‘electronic school bag’ (ESB), and will have a two-GB flash memory, runs on Linux operating system and has basic features,including a B&W LCDs.

“These ESBs can be modified as per the class in which the children are enrolled. For instance, a student enrolled in class III won’t have to carry books and guides to schools as all such study material can be stored in the ESB. Similarly, ESB for other children enrolled in higher classes can be modified as per their study material,” said Jagdish Bharwad, Recourse Group chief.

The ESB, while providing a writing facility for students to complete their homework, can also be attached to a printer.

The company, which employs ten software engineers and eight hardware engineers, has spent Rs 1.20 crore (approx $2.8 million) on R&D and purchase of equipment to develop the model ESB.