The Internet Bus campaign is designed by Google to reach out to individuals who have limited exposure to Internet and its possibilities. The Internet Bus was unveiled on February 3 by Dr. Prasad Ram, Director, R&D at the Music Academy, on TTK Salai in Chennai.
We have traveled to 17 towns across the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu and talked to the offline population about the great happenings on the world wide web. We believe that if we can get people to experience the Internet even briefly they will find the means to go back again. This project represents another way Google is directly engaging with people in India.
Essentially, this is a part of Google's mission to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful. The bus highlights a sample of what is possible on Internet through informative content in English and Tamil across the themes of Information, Education, Communication, and Entertainment. Videos in Local language are designed to make the introduction to Internet simple.
We have traveled to 17 towns across the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu and talked to the offline population about the great happenings on the world wide web. We believe that if we can get people to experience the Internet even briefly they will find the means to go back again. This project represents another way Google is directly engaging with people in India.
Essentially, this is a part of Google's mission to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful. The bus highlights a sample of what is possible on Internet through informative content in English and Tamil across the themes of Information, Education, Communication, and Entertainment. Videos in Local language are designed to make the introduction to Internet simple.
Internet Bus in Vellore
Vellore is a city with a blend of rich heritage and culture representing the ancient Dravidian civilization. It was the seat of the Pallavas, Cholas, Nayak, Marathas, Arcot Nawabs and Bijapur Sultan Kingdoms. Vellore was once the capital city of the mighty Vijayanagar empire during 1606-1672. Vellore gets its name from the Tamil words 'vel' and 'oru', meaning the 'City Of Spears'. It is considered to be one of the oldest surviving cities in South India. The city lies on the banks of the Palar river on the site of Vellore Fort and also between IT majors (Chennai & Bangalore) and major pilgrim centres (Tirupathi and Thiruvannamalai).
As of 2001 India census, Vellore City had a population of 177,413 with an average literacy rate of 74%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas visited: Voorhes Higher Secondary School and the Vellore Fort
We went to Voorhes High School in Vellore. The school management was very cooperative and sent students through the day to help them get familiarized with the concept of the Internet.Other nearby schools like Don Bosco, and the Government school also sent their students to Voorhes.
The students weren't much exposed to the Internet, although some of them had used computer in school. They were excited to learn that they can check their board exam results, online. They were interested to find their houses on Google Earth, to find more information on famous places such as the Golden Temple and Vellore Fort.
The students also wanted to use Internet to learn more about Tsunami so that they could be better prepared if the disaster strikes again. Career was obviously important. Students wanted to know how Internet can be used to find job posting and how it can help in finding colleges for further studies.
As of 2001 India census, Vellore City had a population of 177,413 with an average literacy rate of 74%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas visited: Voorhes Higher Secondary School and the Vellore Fort
We went to Voorhes High School in Vellore. The school management was very cooperative and sent students through the day to help them get familiarized with the concept of the Internet.Other nearby schools like Don Bosco, and the Government school also sent their students to Voorhes.
The students weren't much exposed to the Internet, although some of them had used computer in school. They were excited to learn that they can check their board exam results, online. They were interested to find their houses on Google Earth, to find more information on famous places such as the Golden Temple and Vellore Fort.
The students also wanted to use Internet to learn more about Tsunami so that they could be better prepared if the disaster strikes again. Career was obviously important. Students wanted to know how Internet can be used to find job posting and how it can help in finding colleges for further studies.
Internet Bus in Krishnagiri
Krishnagiri is known as 'Mango's own country'. The city is famous for its mangos and produces almost 300,000 tones annually. The city was under the rule of Krishna Deva Raya and hence it might have been named after this king. 'Krishna' refers to 'black' and 'giri' refers to 'hill'. This district is gifted with black granite hillocks and named as "Krishnagiri".
As of 2001 India census, Krishnagiri had a population of 65,024, with an average literacy rate of 72%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas visited: Krishiland Higher Secondary Scool and Don Bosco Higher Secondary School.
We visited Krishiland School and Don Bosco school at Krishnagiri. Both the school we went to, had about equal mix of boys and girls. Though the schools had computer labs, they did not have an Internet connection. We had a lot of teachers students asking questions about the Internet and checking out the video consoles.
The students were very interested in learning about career options. They were fascinated with Google Earth and everyone wanted to locate their schools on Google Earth! After their experience on the Bus, they were asking us to give them details on the various broadband options to help convince their parents to get Internet access at home!
As of 2001 India census, Krishnagiri had a population of 65,024, with an average literacy rate of 72%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas visited: Krishiland Higher Secondary Scool and Don Bosco Higher Secondary School.
We visited Krishiland School and Don Bosco school at Krishnagiri. Both the school we went to, had about equal mix of boys and girls. Though the schools had computer labs, they did not have an Internet connection. We had a lot of teachers students asking questions about the Internet and checking out the video consoles.
The students were very interested in learning about career options. They were fascinated with Google Earth and everyone wanted to locate their schools on Google Earth! After their experience on the Bus, they were asking us to give them details on the various broadband options to help convince their parents to get Internet access at home!
Internet Bus in Salem
Salem is the fourth largest city of Tamilnadu and located in the central part of the state. The city is also a major textile hub of the country and famous for stainless steel. The name 'Salem' seems to have been derived from Sela or Shalya by which the term refers to the country around the hills, as in the inscriptions.
As of 2001 India census, the Salem Urban Agglomeration had a total population of 751,438 with an average literacy rate of 77%, higher than the national average of 64.5%.
Areas Visited: Holy Angels (Girls) school, Holy Cross (Boys) school, St John's School
Text book education is of prime importance in these schools. Internet was used only by the principal. Students were shy but very smart. A 10th grade student from Holy Cross school wanted to know how he can make money through a website.
College students seemed exposed to Internet. Many students had used to social networking sites but were now restricted by their college.
A police officer wanted to know how to get information about corruption levels using Internet. There was an ascetic with long hair who wanted to unearth a lost idol of "Baadhala Bhairavi Amman". Although we couldn't help him find it, we told him how to create a blog to report his finding once he accomplishes his task. He was quite happy with that.
Computer literacy and education was quite interesting for these people that the Internet Bus was welcomed with a great fanfare.
As of 2001 India census, the Salem Urban Agglomeration had a total population of 751,438 with an average literacy rate of 77%, higher than the national average of 64.5%.
Areas Visited: Holy Angels (Girls) school, Holy Cross (Boys) school, St John's School
Text book education is of prime importance in these schools. Internet was used only by the principal. Students were shy but very smart. A 10th grade student from Holy Cross school wanted to know how he can make money through a website.
College students seemed exposed to Internet. Many students had used to social networking sites but were now restricted by their college.
A police officer wanted to know how to get information about corruption levels using Internet. There was an ascetic with long hair who wanted to unearth a lost idol of "Baadhala Bhairavi Amman". Although we couldn't help him find it, we told him how to create a blog to report his finding once he accomplishes his task. He was quite happy with that.
Computer literacy and education was quite interesting for these people that the Internet Bus was welcomed with a great fanfare.
Internet Bus in Pollachi
Pollachi is known for its picturesque set up at the foothills of the Western Ghats, surrounded by coffee and tea estates. In fact, most of the Tamil movies are shot around this town to portray rural TamilNadu villages. The town exports coconuts and tender coconuts to all over India, and hence called 'Coconut City.' Pollachi is also famous for being Asia's largest Jaggery market.
As of 2001 India census, Pollachi had a population of 88,293 with an average literacy rate of 79%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: Nachiar Vidyalayam School
There is not much Internet penetration in Pollachi and this was a first exposure to the Internet for a relatively large percentage of the population. Most of the school children didn't have any knowledge of the Internet. The management of the Nachiar Vidyalayam school had invited all over 15 schools (Rural Government Schools) to their school to learn about the Internet and the Internet bus was exposed to a larger audience.
Fear of adult content being promoted/circulated over the Internet seemed at large here, due to which children were not allowed to visit the Internet browsing cafes/centers. The emphasis here apart from the benefits of the Internet included education on child filters and safety search features while browsing.
As of 2001 India census, Pollachi had a population of 88,293 with an average literacy rate of 79%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: Nachiar Vidyalayam School
There is not much Internet penetration in Pollachi and this was a first exposure to the Internet for a relatively large percentage of the population. Most of the school children didn't have any knowledge of the Internet. The management of the Nachiar Vidyalayam school had invited all over 15 schools (Rural Government Schools) to their school to learn about the Internet and the Internet bus was exposed to a larger audience.
Fear of adult content being promoted/circulated over the Internet seemed at large here, due to which children were not allowed to visit the Internet browsing cafes/centers. The emphasis here apart from the benefits of the Internet included education on child filters and safety search features while browsing.
Internet bus in Coimbatore
Also known as Kovai, Coimbatore is the second largest city of Tamil Nadu and one of the fastest growing cities in India. Popularly known as "The Textile Capital of South India" or "The Manchester of the South India", the city is situated on the banks of the river Noyyal. Or, would you recognize it if we say, you go to Ooty passing by this city mostly? Situated at the foot hills of Nilgiris, it is known for its pleasant climate, peaceful atmosphere, cosmopolitan outlook and private enterprise. Our Internet Bus team thoroughly enjoyed the கோவை தமிழ் (Coimbatore Tamil) spoken in the city, which any Tamilian would agree to call it as the 'Sweetest Tamil Accent.'
As of the 2001 India census, Coimbatore had a population of 930,882 in Municipal Corporation limits with an average literacy rate of 78%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited : Chinmaya Vidyalaya Matriculation School, Kovai Kalaimagal College of Arts and Science, Perk's Matriculation School, Venkatalakshmi Matriculation School.
The Internet exposure was quite significant in Coimbatore. There were certain schools that encouraged Internet exposure by giving them assignments that require online references. The higher class students were very smart and knowledgeable about the Internet as they asked high end questions on topics like Internet speed, Internet servers, memory space, and more.
The Internet Bus was visited by a young boy, who sold flowers for a living, and had no clue about the Internet but managed to learn about maps, earth and search in local language.
The mobile station seemed like a big hit as most college-going students with high end phones wanted to install the Google Mobile Pack on their mobiles. Many of the students also saved the Google SMS number on their phones and asked for extra collateral, so they could distribute among their friends.
As of the 2001 India census, Coimbatore had a population of 930,882 in Municipal Corporation limits with an average literacy rate of 78%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited : Chinmaya Vidyalaya Matriculation School, Kovai Kalaimagal College of Arts and Science, Perk's Matriculation School, Venkatalakshmi Matriculation School.
The Internet exposure was quite significant in Coimbatore. There were certain schools that encouraged Internet exposure by giving them assignments that require online references. The higher class students were very smart and knowledgeable about the Internet as they asked high end questions on topics like Internet speed, Internet servers, memory space, and more.
The Internet Bus was visited by a young boy, who sold flowers for a living, and had no clue about the Internet but managed to learn about maps, earth and search in local language.
The mobile station seemed like a big hit as most college-going students with high end phones wanted to install the Google Mobile Pack on their mobiles. Many of the students also saved the Google SMS number on their phones and asked for extra collateral, so they could distribute among their friends.
Internet Bus in Dindigul
The Huge Hill at Dindigul resembles a pillow. Thus, the city is know as Dindigul, a portmanteau from the Indian 'Thindu' for pillow, and 'kal' for rock. Dindigul is famous for its manufacture of locks, and therefore, commonly known as the "City of Locks and Tannery." A favorite cigar of Winston Churchill, the 'Light of Asia', was produced in Dindigul, a land famous for Tobacco too.
As of 2001 India census, Dindigul had a population of 196,619 with an average literacy rate of 79%, higher than the national average of 64.8%.
Areas Visited: St.Mary's Hr. Sec. School and Parvathi Arts & Science College
Internet penetration seemed to be high amongst the college students as they seemed to be using the Net for their assignments and projects. They were more savvy than their professors! Focus here was on learning how can they use the Internet to improve their lives and were interested in topics such as Internet banking, ticket booking, and mobile search, etc.
Exposure to additional uses of the Internet like blogging, mobile phone reviews, recipes, vacation packages, set them thinking and one group was all set to start a blog about the latest project they were working on.
Students in local medium schools didn't know much about the Internet. For many, this was their first Internet experience and they were very excited to learn more. Emphasis here was on how Internet can be useful in their day-to-day life, that too in their local language, which lead to an increased interest in the benefits of the Internet.
As of 2001 India census, Dindigul had a population of 196,619 with an average literacy rate of 79%, higher than the national average of 64.8%.
Areas Visited: St.Mary's Hr. Sec. School and Parvathi Arts & Science College
Internet penetration seemed to be high amongst the college students as they seemed to be using the Net for their assignments and projects. They were more savvy than their professors! Focus here was on learning how can they use the Internet to improve their lives and were interested in topics such as Internet banking, ticket booking, and mobile search, etc.
Exposure to additional uses of the Internet like blogging, mobile phone reviews, recipes, vacation packages, set them thinking and one group was all set to start a blog about the latest project they were working on.
Students in local medium schools didn't know much about the Internet. For many, this was their first Internet experience and they were very excited to learn more. Emphasis here was on how Internet can be useful in their day-to-day life, that too in their local language, which lead to an increased interest in the benefits of the Internet.
Internet Bus in Madurai
Madurai is one of the important cities in South India. The seventh largest city in Tamil Nadu, One of South India's great temple towns, Madurai is synonymous with the celebrated Meenakshi Temple. Temples, monuments and ancient cultural wonders abound in Madurai. It is even called ‘The Athens of the East’. Jasmine flowers of Madurai district are known all over the country. They carry a special fragrance unique to Madurai.
As of the 2001 India census, the city of Madurai had a population of 928,869 within the municipal corporation limit with an average literacy rate of 79%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: Noyes School, Kendriya Vidyalaya, Seventh Day Mat Hr Sec School, OCPM and YWCA
Overall, the Madurai population seemed quite savvy and informed in terms of Internet knowledge. Children in higher classes were more aware about the Internet than the younger ones.Concerns regarding security and misuse of the Internet were dominant amongst teachers and parents.
We had visitors of all ages on the bus.The major areas of interest included topics such as job search, exam results, chatting with children living away, Internet banking and more. One priest was interested in pictures of Madurai Meenakshi goddess and wanted to know if there were live camera feeds for all other gods too! An old gentleman after being on the bus decided to get an Internet connection at home to chat with his daughter living in another city.
There's a mindset amongst the older audience, that learning how to use the Internet for even basic things such as emails is hard, difficult and costly. They wanted to know if there is any course on how to use the Internet and where they could enroll for such a course.
As of the 2001 India census, the city of Madurai had a population of 928,869 within the municipal corporation limit with an average literacy rate of 79%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: Noyes School, Kendriya Vidyalaya, Seventh Day Mat Hr Sec School, OCPM and YWCA
Overall, the Madurai population seemed quite savvy and informed in terms of Internet knowledge. Children in higher classes were more aware about the Internet than the younger ones.Concerns regarding security and misuse of the Internet were dominant amongst teachers and parents.
We had visitors of all ages on the bus.The major areas of interest included topics such as job search, exam results, chatting with children living away, Internet banking and more. One priest was interested in pictures of Madurai Meenakshi goddess and wanted to know if there were live camera feeds for all other gods too! An old gentleman after being on the bus decided to get an Internet connection at home to chat with his daughter living in another city.
There's a mindset amongst the older audience, that learning how to use the Internet for even basic things such as emails is hard, difficult and costly. They wanted to know if there is any course on how to use the Internet and where they could enroll for such a course.
Internet Bus in Tirunelveli
Tirunelveli is the 6th largest city in Tamil Nadu, South India, and the district headquarters of Tirunelveli district. The city is considered to be one of the oldest in the Indian subcontinent, with a history that dates back to 1000 BC. Tirunelveli is an important junction in the National Highway No 7 connecting India from the North to South (Kashmir to Kanyakumari). Tirunelveli is also often called the "Halwa City" for its very famous sweet Halwa.
As of 2001 India census, Tirunelveli had a population of 411,298, with an average literacy rate of 78%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: Lakshmi Ratan school
The students of the school were very curious to learn about the Internet and the bus was soon filled with hundreds of kids. The word spread so fast that kids who had gone home after their public exams came rushing back to see what the bus had to offer.
In fact, most of them wanted to know about websites which would give them their exam results. A lot of students were interested in researching about the colleges they'd like to study in.
As of 2001 India census, Tirunelveli had a population of 411,298, with an average literacy rate of 78%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: Lakshmi Ratan school
The students of the school were very curious to learn about the Internet and the bus was soon filled with hundreds of kids. The word spread so fast that kids who had gone home after their public exams came rushing back to see what the bus had to offer.
In fact, most of them wanted to know about websites which would give them their exam results. A lot of students were interested in researching about the colleges they'd like to study in.
Internet Bus in Nagercoil
Nagercoil is the capital of Kanyakumari. Nagercoil derives its name from a famous old temple called the Naga Raja Temple (temple of the serpent king) which still exists in the central part of the town. It has been an important temple for Hindus for centuries, and it also is a tourist attraction. According to certain accounts, it may once have been a Jain temple, as icons of the Jain Tirthankaras -- Mahavira and Parsvanatha -- are found on the pillars of the temple. In earlier days, Nagercoil and its surroundings were known as Nanjilnadu .
As of 2001 India census, Nagercoil had a population of 208,149 with an an average literacy rate of 85%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: Adarsh Kendriya Vidyalaya and Women's Christian College and Anna Stadium
The principal of a deaf and dumb school heard that the Internet Bus was parked a block away from her institution and sent all her students over to take a look at the bus. The teachers from this school helped our promoters educate these special students about the Internet.
Many people between ages 20-40 were very impressed by the Google SMS number and wanted to know how they could use it on a day to day basis. T
The students from engineering colleges in Nagercoil were very impressed by our videos and asked our instructors to explain how they could view demonstrations on YouTube. The biology students and literature students from one college were of the opinion that internet is only for the computer science stream students. But they were amazed to see the biological diagrams and the literary resources in Wikipedia and Google search.
A father decided to get Internet for his son after they both saw its uses inside the Internet Bus. Quite a few people wanted to know how expensive an Internet connection was.
As of 2001 India census, Nagercoil had a population of 208,149 with an an average literacy rate of 85%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: Adarsh Kendriya Vidyalaya and Women's Christian College and Anna Stadium
The principal of a deaf and dumb school heard that the Internet Bus was parked a block away from her institution and sent all her students over to take a look at the bus. The teachers from this school helped our promoters educate these special students about the Internet.
Many people between ages 20-40 were very impressed by the Google SMS number and wanted to know how they could use it on a day to day basis. T
The students from engineering colleges in Nagercoil were very impressed by our videos and asked our instructors to explain how they could view demonstrations on YouTube. The biology students and literature students from one college were of the opinion that internet is only for the computer science stream students. But they were amazed to see the biological diagrams and the literary resources in Wikipedia and Google search.
A father decided to get Internet for his son after they both saw its uses inside the Internet Bus. Quite a few people wanted to know how expensive an Internet connection was.
Internet Bus in Tuticorin
Thoothukudi is known as Tuticorin. It is the headquarters of Tuticorin District. "Thoortha" means land "reclaimed" from sea while "Kudi" also stands for "settlement" or "colony". Hence "Thoortha Kudi" or Thoothukudi could mean a settlement built on land reclaimed from sea. Tuticorin is a main Port city of India . The major harbor of Tuticorin is well known as pearl diving, fishing centre and shipbuilding. The city is also known as " Pearl City ” and "Muthu Nagar”. Tuticorin is famous for pearl fishing, production of salt, fishing and other related business. Totally 70% salt is manufactured in Tuticorin.
Areas Visited: VOC College, St. Thomas School, Kamachi Vidhyalaya School, St.Mary's Women's College, St. Thomas College and Anna Statue
We saw a lot of parents bring their kids to the bus when it was stationed at the Anna Statue. One of the parents said "Our children are so fascinated by this bus that they will definitely try using Internet in future." A family from a village 30 kms from Tuticorin came over to see the bus when it was at the Hotspot.
In fact, many people didn't know about the existence of the Tamil Web. A visit to our bus has helped them know about its existence and they were impressed that they could use the Internet in their own local language.
The principal at the Kamachi Vidyalaya school invited three matriculation situated around her school to take a look at the Google Internet Bus. The students were really impressed with the uses of the Internet and could not contain their excitement at seeing an orkut community about their favorite teacher.
Teachers are not far from the students here. We educated all the B. Ed students from St.Thomas College about the internet. These future teachers promised to teach the same things to their students once they started teaching.
Areas Visited: VOC College, St. Thomas School, Kamachi Vidhyalaya School, St.Mary's Women's College, St. Thomas College and Anna Statue
We saw a lot of parents bring their kids to the bus when it was stationed at the Anna Statue. One of the parents said "Our children are so fascinated by this bus that they will definitely try using Internet in future." A family from a village 30 kms from Tuticorin came over to see the bus when it was at the Hotspot.
In fact, many people didn't know about the existence of the Tamil Web. A visit to our bus has helped them know about its existence and they were impressed that they could use the Internet in their own local language.
The principal at the Kamachi Vidyalaya school invited three matriculation situated around her school to take a look at the Google Internet Bus. The students were really impressed with the uses of the Internet and could not contain their excitement at seeing an orkut community about their favorite teacher.
Teachers are not far from the students here. We educated all the B. Ed students from St.Thomas College about the internet. These future teachers promised to teach the same things to their students once they started teaching.
Internet Bus in Pudukkottai
The present-day district of Pudukkottai was part of the Pandya kingdom. It was founded by Raghunath, raja of Tondaimandalam (the region around the ancient port of Tondi on India’s southeastern coast). Industries include peanut (groundnut) oil and sesame oil extraction. As of 2001 India census,Pudukkottai had a population of 108,947 with an average literacy rate of 78%, higher than the national average of 59.5%
Areas Visited : Mount Zion Matriculation School, Outside Court Premises
The school children here were eager to know about the Internet and stayed on past school hours to get on the bus. They were excited to see image searches of the popular actor Vijay, latest tamil movie songs on youtube and their school on google maps.They were equally amazed to know that they can check 10th and 12th std results online.
Some of the older children were quite savvy and asked questions about how to find out information for further studies and information about colleges and how to apply for them online.
Areas Visited : Mount Zion Matriculation School, Outside Court Premises
The school children here were eager to know about the Internet and stayed on past school hours to get on the bus. They were excited to see image searches of the popular actor Vijay, latest tamil movie songs on youtube and their school on google maps.They were equally amazed to know that they can check 10th and 12th std results online.
Some of the older children were quite savvy and asked questions about how to find out information for further studies and information about colleges and how to apply for them online.
Internet Bus in Trichy
Tiruchirappalli, situated on the banks of the river Cauvery is the fourth largest city in Tamil Nadu. Trichy is a fine blend of tradition and modernity built around the Rock Fort. The most famous land mark of this bustling town is the Rockfort Temple, a spectacular monument perched on a massive rocky out crop which rises abruptly from the plain to tower over the old city. The city is a thriving commercial centre in Tamil Nadu and is famous for artificial diamonds, cigars, handloom cloth, glass bangles and wooden and clay toys. As of the 2001 national census, Trichy had a population of 746,062 with an average literacy rate of 91.45%.
Areas Visited: Bharti Vidhyalaya Matriculation School, Dhanalaxmi Matriculation School, Anna Stadium and Chattaram Bus Stand.
Word about our bus spread like wild fire. In fact some of the visitors said they heard about the Internet Bus from someone in a movie theatre and then came to take a look at it. Some teachers visited the bus as they were curious about knowing how to use the Internet to educate children better. They were impressed when they learnt about creating youtube videos online and using these videos for education.
The college going crowd at the Anna Stadium were interested in knowing about how they could use the Internet to find more information about what they were studying. The students at one of the schools were so enthusiastic that they queued up right till the second floor of their school to get inside the bus.
Many children brought their parents to the bus to learn about the Internet and its benefits. They were also interested in knowing about colleges where they could pursue their further education.
Indic transliteration was a big hit at the hotspots. Many people were also interested in knowing about how they could read news online since they didn't get time to read the newspaper before going to work.
Areas Visited: Bharti Vidhyalaya Matriculation School, Dhanalaxmi Matriculation School, Anna Stadium and Chattaram Bus Stand.
Word about our bus spread like wild fire. In fact some of the visitors said they heard about the Internet Bus from someone in a movie theatre and then came to take a look at it. Some teachers visited the bus as they were curious about knowing how to use the Internet to educate children better. They were impressed when they learnt about creating youtube videos online and using these videos for education.
The college going crowd at the Anna Stadium were interested in knowing about how they could use the Internet to find more information about what they were studying. The students at one of the schools were so enthusiastic that they queued up right till the second floor of their school to get inside the bus.
Many children brought their parents to the bus to learn about the Internet and its benefits. They were also interested in knowing about colleges where they could pursue their further education.
Indic transliteration was a big hit at the hotspots. Many people were also interested in knowing about how they could read news online since they didn't get time to read the newspaper before going to work.
Internet Bus in Thanjavur
Also known as 'Tanjore.' Thanjavur District is the Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu. The Big Temple and the other famous temples in the district are known all over the world. Thanjavur was the cultural capital of the country in 1790. Thanjavur is the eleventh largest city in Tamil Nadu with a population of 221,185 with an average literacy rate of 80%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: Marudu Pandiyar College, Tamil University and New Bus Stand
We had a lot of college going crowd entering the bus and they had a lot of questions about Google Maps. Students at the Marudu Pandiyar College were very impressed with the information about Internet and said that they would use the Internet to get information for their future assignments.
Education seems like a very strong point here. At the hotspots, many middle aged people wanted to know how their children could find information about universities to pursue future education online.
The registrar of the Tamil Nadu university, visited the bus and was all praise for it and said that the bus was ideal to spread Internet awareness in Tamil Nadu.
Areas Visited: Marudu Pandiyar College, Tamil University and New Bus Stand
We had a lot of college going crowd entering the bus and they had a lot of questions about Google Maps. Students at the Marudu Pandiyar College were very impressed with the information about Internet and said that they would use the Internet to get information for their future assignments.
Education seems like a very strong point here. At the hotspots, many middle aged people wanted to know how their children could find information about universities to pursue future education online.
The registrar of the Tamil Nadu university, visited the bus and was all praise for it and said that the bus was ideal to spread Internet awareness in Tamil Nadu.
Internet Bus in Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam is one of the oldest towns in Tamilnadu and is famous for its Mahamaham festival. Kumbakonam is the temple city of South India situated in Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. The city is famous for the Mahamaham festival that is celebrated once in 12 years in the Mahamaham tank located in the heart of it.
The town is famous for brass vessels. It is primarily a market town for the predominantly agriculture based villages surrounding it. Betel leaves are cultivated more in Kumbakonam since it is also called as Kumbakonam Vettrilai (in Tamil). As of 2001 India census, Kumbakonam had a population of 140,021 with an average literacy rate of 78%, higher than the national average of 59.5%
Areas Visitied: Idhaya Women's College, Mamaha Kollam
The students at the college felt that the Google Indic Transliteration website would help them, especially because many of the students were studying in Tamil Medium. Many of them noted down the extension on the collateral we gave them. Girls seemed quite shy at asking questions and it took them some time to actually ask their questions.
Many people at the Mamaha Kollam were very impressed by Google Maps. They were all interested in looking at the temple on our maps. Another topic that they were interested in was the Google Indic Transliteration. They were also excited to know more about sending emails to their friends and family.
The town is famous for brass vessels. It is primarily a market town for the predominantly agriculture based villages surrounding it. Betel leaves are cultivated more in Kumbakonam since it is also called as Kumbakonam Vettrilai (in Tamil). As of 2001 India census, Kumbakonam had a population of 140,021 with an average literacy rate of 78%, higher than the national average of 59.5%
Areas Visitied: Idhaya Women's College, Mamaha Kollam
The students at the college felt that the Google Indic Transliteration website would help them, especially because many of the students were studying in Tamil Medium. Many of them noted down the extension on the collateral we gave them. Girls seemed quite shy at asking questions and it took them some time to actually ask their questions.
Many people at the Mamaha Kollam were very impressed by Google Maps. They were all interested in looking at the temple on our maps. Another topic that they were interested in was the Google Indic Transliteration. They were also excited to know more about sending emails to their friends and family.
Internet Bus in Neyveli
Neyveli is a mining and power generation township in Cuddalore district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. When systematic geological investigations were taken up in the area, occurrence of lignite over an area of 260 sq.km. With reserves of 2100 million tones discovered. The township was developed after mining of lignite started under the Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) in 1956. Today the township covers 53 square kilometres provide around 21,000 houses for the employees
As of 2001 India census, Neyveli had a population of 128,133 with an average literacy rate of 78%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: 7th Day Adventist School, Aurobindo Vidyalaya School,
Internet penetration seemed to be quite high in Neyveli. Teachers & students at the Aurobindo School were really interested in knowing about the Internet. Blogging seemed to be quite popular as many of them wanted information about how they could create their own blogs.
Apart from blogging, entertainment on the Internet seemed the next big thing. Many people wanted to know how they could upload and share videos on You Tube.
As of 2001 India census, Neyveli had a population of 128,133 with an average literacy rate of 78%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: 7th Day Adventist School, Aurobindo Vidyalaya School,
Internet penetration seemed to be quite high in Neyveli. Teachers & students at the Aurobindo School were really interested in knowing about the Internet. Blogging seemed to be quite popular as many of them wanted information about how they could create their own blogs.
Apart from blogging, entertainment on the Internet seemed the next big thing. Many people wanted to know how they could upload and share videos on You Tube.
Internet Bus in Cuddalore
Cuddalore is a fast growing industrial city and located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu and is the headquarters of the Cuddalore district. Located south of Pondicherry on the Bay of Bengal, Cuddalore in Tamil means "Sea town" and is known for its beaches, particularly Silver beach, which is an emerging tourist spot.
As of 2001 India census, Cuddalore had a population of 158,569 with an average literacy rate of 76%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: Kamatchi shanmugam Mat. Hr.Sec.School, Silver Beach and the Cuddalore Bus Stand
Blogs and videos seemed to be the hot areas of interest for the people in Cuddalore. At the Silver beach, people were amazed when they got to know they could upload their videos online and create blogs which could be viewed by others. In fact one person has been following the bus since it started its tour of Tamil Nadu. He has a blog all about Cuddalore and plans to write about the bus on his blog.
A group of teachers who had come for a conference from various parts of Tamil Nadu saw the bus at the beach and decided to learn about the Internet. Although they knew about the Internet, they hadn't known that it could be used for so many different purposes.
Maps and Earth seemed to be the area of fascination for the crowd. A businessman who owns a travel agency wanted to know how he could use maps to ensure his drivers reached a destination on time. People had questions about when street view would come to India. At the time of exiting the bus, many of them were interested in knowing how they could get an Internet connection!
As of 2001 India census, Cuddalore had a population of 158,569 with an average literacy rate of 76%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: Kamatchi shanmugam Mat. Hr.Sec.School, Silver Beach and the Cuddalore Bus Stand
Blogs and videos seemed to be the hot areas of interest for the people in Cuddalore. At the Silver beach, people were amazed when they got to know they could upload their videos online and create blogs which could be viewed by others. In fact one person has been following the bus since it started its tour of Tamil Nadu. He has a blog all about Cuddalore and plans to write about the bus on his blog.
A group of teachers who had come for a conference from various parts of Tamil Nadu saw the bus at the beach and decided to learn about the Internet. Although they knew about the Internet, they hadn't known that it could be used for so many different purposes.
Maps and Earth seemed to be the area of fascination for the crowd. A businessman who owns a travel agency wanted to know how he could use maps to ensure his drivers reached a destination on time. People had questions about when street view would come to India. At the time of exiting the bus, many of them were interested in knowing how they could get an Internet connection!
Internet Bus in Thiruvannamalai
Thiruvannamalai is a pilgrimage town and municipality in Thiruvannamalai district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Thiruvannamalai is home to the Annamalaiyar Temple located at the foot of the Annamalai hill and amongst one of the great Shiva Temples of Tamilnadu. Thiruvannamalai has long been associated with many yogis and siddhars, and more recently the 20th century guru Ramana Maharshi.
As of 2001 India census, Thiruvannamalai had a population of 130,301 with an an average literacy rate of 74%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: V.D.S Jain School, Sishya Matriculation School and Bus Stand Roundana
Apart from the popular use of Internet which is to play games, the school children were very eager to learn more about the Internet. Like, students of the V.D.S. school were most interested in knowing about YouTube to see videos about physics experiments as well as find their favorite songs online. Shishya school had students wanted to know how they could use Wikipedia to get information for their projects.
Many people at the hotspots wanted to know how to use the Internet to learn English online. After visiting the bus, many people wanted to know more about how they could get an Internet connection.
As of 2001 India census, Thiruvannamalai had a population of 130,301 with an an average literacy rate of 74%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.
Areas Visited: V.D.S Jain School, Sishya Matriculation School and Bus Stand Roundana
Apart from the popular use of Internet which is to play games, the school children were very eager to learn more about the Internet. Like, students of the V.D.S. school were most interested in knowing about YouTube to see videos about physics experiments as well as find their favorite songs online. Shishya school had students wanted to know how they could use Wikipedia to get information for their projects.
Many people at the hotspots wanted to know how to use the Internet to learn English online. After visiting the bus, many people wanted to know more about how they could get an Internet connection.
Thanks for sharing, I will bookmark and be back again
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