About FOSS

Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) is software which anybody has the freedom to use, study, modify and share. The source code of FOSS applications is made available to the user for this purpose. FOSS is often also free or gratis (zero cost). However the 'Free' in Free Software means 'freedom' (just like free speech means freedom to speak and express ourselves) and not 'no cost'.

There are several reasons to use and promote FOSS in educational institutions, governments, businesses, as well as in non-profit organisations. The reasons are even stronger in the case of institutions in the 'public sector' which work for the public interest.

This website is intended for the Indian public sector, and especially for the public sector in Karnataka. It aims to provide resources (technical support, training and development), information about FOSS and about its importance for the public sector. It also aims to build a 'coalition of individuals and institutions' working on similar issues, for creating a strong eco-system to facilitate the success of FOSS in the public sector.

If you believe in the ideals of Free Software, please lend your support and participation to this movement.