Six months after it was launched amid much fanfare, HRD minister Kapil Sibal's Aakash project has barely taken off as only 650 units have actually reached students. The computer tablet priced at $35 (Rs 2,250) - touted as the world's cheapest - has been hit by several disputes lately. But the intensity of the damage suffered by the project is now evident from the aforementioned figures provided by the HRD ministry in an answer to a Lok Sabha question during the budget session.

Aakash 2 set for launch in May
Aakash, which was unveiled on October 5, is the country's latest offering in a series of affordable technological innovations that includes the world's cheapest car, Tata Nano. The device was created specifically for students with the aim of bridging the "digital divide" between the rich and poor.