|
|
Telecom giant Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) launched low-cost mobile phones with free prepaid connections for rural subscribers of Uttar Pradesh. The initiative was taken by the sate-run telecom company in association with Ajanta India Ltd (AIL). Manufactured by the Gujarat-based AIL, the mobile hand sets will be available for just Rs.1,290 and more interestingly the talk value of Rs.1,500 will offered absolutely free of cost with each hand set.
While commenting on the introduction of the rural scheme, BSNL chief general manager Om Vir Singh said that every month, about 700,000 new subscribers get added to the mobile market in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Of the total subscribers, 90 percent are rural dwellers. As result, the telecom company has decided to launch the scheme which will not only enable BSNL to rope in the rural consumers but also help the villagers to opt for affordable service.
Mr Om Vir Singh also informed that apart from AIL; other companies have also entered into similar accord with BSNL. Handset makers like Beetle, LG and Nokia are in agreement with BSNL. Interacting with the media, AIL director Vikram Iyer said that his company has created a strong network of distributors and service centres across Uttar Pradesh. He expects that AIL's first initiative in the mobile market will give good results. The company is also in search for similar possibilities in other states, added Vikram Iyer.
