MUMBAI: Qualcomm, a developer of code division multiple access (CDMA) technology for mobile communications, has announced the selection of winners for its $ 1 million wireless reach Brew application funding program.

The program challenges developers to create the most innovative Brew public service application in one of five areas: healthcare, education, public safety, governance and the environment.

The grand prize winner is Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). TCS will receive a grant for $ 100,000 for development of its proposed application. The application development team, led by TCS' head of advanced technology and applications, Dr Arun Pande, will demonstrate how CDMA networks can help provide specific and useful advice to farmers and spread the benefits of technology deep into rural India at an affordable cost. For the grand prize, Qualcomm will also apply additional funds to put TCS' proposal into action through a new or existing wireless reach project.

The other grant recipients include Bandung Institute of Technology, Beijing InfoQuick SinoVoice Speech Technology Corp, BeWell Mobile Technology and University of California, Berkeley.

"Qualcomm is very proud to recognize these organizations and their creative efforts to develop Brew applications that will serve the public interest," said Qualcomm CEO Dr Paul Jacobs. "The innovative applications they'll design hold great potential to enhance the quality of life for all who use them. As mobile broadband services expand into underserved communities, we're pleased to support these developers in our shared commitment to improve the way people communicate and access information around the world."