Bridging the divide?

ET has an interesting article overviewing the impact of various technology initiatives in rural India including the following gem:

Started under the governement's Grameen Sanchar Sevak scheme, a postman totes mobile phone along with letters. Postmen carry WLL (wireless in local loop) phones while delivering mail. Residents can use the phone to make calls, both local and STD for certian charge. The service is targeted at people who do not own a telephone.

These phones have in-built display units which show the number of pulses for determining the duration of an outgoing call. Once the call is over, an on-the-spot bill is presented for instant payment. For easy calculation, a ready reckoner is also been provided along with the phone in the local language.

Story: Economic Times.