our scientists of the Forum of Scientists, Engineers and Technologists (FOSET) here, claim to have developed a cost-effective, user-friendly software on Geographic Information System (GIS), that will end the monopoly of the existing GIS software. They have also applied for patent rights at the Kolkata office.

GIS software helps one access computerized data base with a computerized map and has various other usages such as finding out exact road linkages.

The new software has been developed by Mr Subhashis Dutta, Mr Joy Chakraborty is from Siliguri, the others are from Jalpaiguri .

GIS software helps one access computerized database with a computerized map and has various other usages such as finding out exact road linkages.

The new software has been developed by Mr. Subhasis Dutta, Mr. Joy Chakraborty, Samir Bagchi and Charvak. While Mr. Joy Chakraborty is from Siliguri, the others are from Jalpaiguri.

Mr. Joy Chakraborty said that the present GIS software, such as Arc Info, Arc View, Map Info, are very expensive.

"Our software will be available in CDs and will cost Rs. 500 whereas installing and maintaining previous software cost anything between Rs. 4 to 14 lakh," said Mr. Roy, adding due to the monopoly of big business houses, one has to seek help from the companies.

With the present software, the user can add new data or make suitable adjustments, which is its greatest advantage. "Multi-user facilities will also be available, said Mr. Joy Chakraborty.

The new software is being monitored by IIT Mumbai. It has also been demonstrated before the DM< Jalpaiguri, on 4 March.

The Sikkim Institute Rural Development, Jorethang, is seeking permission from its government for its use. On 1 April, FOSET will be informing the Siligure Mahukama Parishad of its development. Mr. Charkraborty further informed a certain tea-plantation is also keeping in touch with it for the software.

The team received no government funding during the entire process of developing the software. "We started our work in June 2001 and the total expenses incurred by us was about Rs. 60,000," said Mr. Chakraborty.