The Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) technology, indigenously designed and developed by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), was formally transferred to its manufacturers by the Telecom Minister Kapil Sibal at a function in New Delhi today. The GPON technology is required for broadband connectivity over optical fiber. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sibal said, this technology will be used for the benefit of common man. Mr. Sibal elaborated that private sector will also be involved in a big way to ensure that its benefits reach the people very fast. The Minister added this is one of the important elements of new Telecom policy framed early this year.Minister of State for IT, Sachin Pilot said that the technology has been tested, validated, field evaluated and then made operational in the BSNL Network at Ajmer , Rajasthan. AIR Correspondent adds that the C-DOT GPON technology is appropriate and suited for Indian environment. It is targeted for fiber expansion in the country to fulfill the requirements of major national programmes like National Optical Fiber Network (NOFN), State-Wide-Area Network (SWAN) connectivity, Broadband connectivity in Rural, North-East, Tribal areas, as well as expansion of networks of Defence, Railways Networks on optical fiber and many other strategic networks. It can also be used to provide a broadband solution to village panchayats and take the benefits of e-Education, e-Governance, e-Commerce and e-Medicine.