Great article by Vibek Raj Maurya ('Windows of opportunity for Nepali computing', #278). But as an ex-software giant employee and a firm believer in technology for all, I think the entry of NepLinux will do little to 'set off a debate in Nepal about licensing and pirated software'. What's there to debate after all? We have well respected Pvt Ltd dealers who sell Windows XP for Rs 125 (I got a Rs 25 coupon with mine) or deliver new PCs with OS and tons of applications, all of which is fondly termed 'New Road Software' and free of charge. Can anything be called 'pirated', ie stolen when, a licensed business in Nepal sells it? And can one pick on software when the majority of Chinese hardware sold in the kingdom also contains so called 'pirated' firmware? Can a working family of four living in Nepal ever think of affording an educational Windows application if the price tag is $ 50 instead of the customary Rs 50? So the debate comes down to something simpler and one that has been waged for decades: should computing be affordable for all, or just a select few in society? Linux and the concept of Open Source software is the alternative but unfortunately, these models are decades behind the commercial offerings as far as ease of use and device-independence. Educational discounts for software licenses offer 30-40 percent of the full retail price: for example that reduces the price tag of Microsoft Office to Rs 10,000, which is more than Pop makes in monthly salary. Sounds crazy but this scenario can be seen in all venues of life where people of limited means can benefit from new technologies. So if we are to debate 'piracy' let's first examine just what is being stolen from whom and who needs what the most.

Jigme Gaton,
Kathmandu

. Thank you for the article on Nepali computing. Although it was more concerned about the technical details and operating system philosophies, it is clear that NepaLinux has a difficult road ahead and its penetration will depend on how well Madan Puraskar Pustakalaya can target users in Nepal who have never used computers before. A first time user of computers may be more amenable to Nepalinux and remain loyal. We must not forget the structure and dynamics of the Nepali computer market and NepaLinux must have a targeted and strategic plan to move ahead. I request all computer users to try and make it a success.

Rajani Swar,
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