Microsoft To Push Broadband Access In IndiaMicrosoft To Push Broadband Access In India

BANGALORE, India — Microsoft Corp. said it will join forces with telecommunications service providers, PC companies and banks here to offer a broadband and PC package at affordable rates.

The plan was announced after a meeting in Redmond, Wash., between Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates and an Indian team lead by Dayanidhi Maran, minister for communications and information technology.

Telecom services provider Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd., HCL Infotech, the State Bank of India and other Indian institutions will participate in the program aimed at promoting broadband penetration in India. Despite government efforts, computers and broadband access remain expensive here.