Many people have that one friend that they call every time they need help, whether it’s with computers or just generic random questions. (I’ve been that friend more times than I’d like, personally.) For those who don’t, or those who have driven that friend insane with their constant requests, there’s a new number they can call, as a group of engineers in India have set up a toll free helpline number.
The 24/7 helpline is currently functional in Lucknow and Kanpur, with more cities to be added in the future. Those who call can get information not only regarding technology, but railways, movies, hotels, the stock market – pretty much anything one would need to look up on the Internet (with the exception of NSFW content, of course).
The helpline is kept afloat only by the efforts of those running it. Each of them have left their jobs to work the helpline, but are already seeing it succeed. They opted not to give it to the government, due to the poor state of government-run helplines, and are doing a remarkable job keeping it running.
Upon its establishment in Kanpur, the helpline had tens of thousands of calls to deal with, and succeeded to the point where they needed to open a second location in Lucknow. If it continues to receive a great response, it will be further expanded across India, though it will likely require many more employees by that point.
In spite of the prevalence of mobile devices, not everyone has access to them, much less the Internet, at all times. The helpline is proving tremendously successful, providing useful information and answers to those who need it, when they need it. It basically brings the information that one would normally have to look up online to them over the phone, at no costs to the caller. The convenience is not to be overlooked, as well as the help that they’re providing to thousands of people.
Edited by Blaise McNamee