With state-of-the-art IT infrastructure with dedicated hi-speed Internet connectivity, the facilities on offer would include more than just the basics like video conferencing, email, printing, scanning and fax. There will also be a digital library with facilities to conduct IT education and awareness courses, and avenues for digital entertainment.

"The objective is to boost usage of information-communication technology and enhance the awareness of the general populace regarding latest developments in the field," said R. S. Sharma, the principal secretary, state IT department.

The state government has identified a one-acre plot in the heart of the city near the office of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission to host the proposed IT centre and Rs 9 crore has been set aside for the construction of the building and the IT infrastructure. Work was scheduled to begin soon, said Sharma, adding that the centre would be up and functioning within a year.

Bangalore and Hyderabad have similar IT centres but private IT companies run those. In Jharkhand, a state government initiative is behind the IT centre, with the idea that the public would have easy access to latest IT facilities for a minimum fee.

However, the state government, said Sharma, was planning to replicate the experience of Bangkok where a number of similar IT knowledge hubs exist.

Though the state government would be using public funds to set it up, the IT centre would be handed over to a private IT firm for day-to-day operations. This was being done to ensure the centre was maintained efficiently, said Sharma.