Government forms EGoM on 3G spectrum; Pranab Mukherjee to head
14.07.2009
Government forms EGoM on 3G spectrum; Pranab Mukherjee to head (ET)The government today constituted an Empowered Group of Ministers to look into issues relating to spectrum for 3G telephony that will revolutionise the way data is received and transferred from mobile phones.
Indian Telecom posts 103 Percent growth in FDI inflows: ASSOCHAM (EFY)Despite global recession and liquidity crunch, Indian economy registered 11 per cent rise in FDI with sectors like telecommunication, recording robust growth during fiscal 2008-09, according to a report by the Associated Chamber of Commerce and Industry of India.
BSNL fails to retire Rs 7,500 cr govt loan: CAG report (ET)State-run BSNL failed to retire a government loan of Rs 7,500 despite having a cash-reserve of Rs 18,829 crore as on March 2005, leading to an excess expenditure of Rs 1,089 crore on interest payment during 2005-07.
Sterlite Technologies wins Rs.372 crore BSNL contract (TID)Sterlite Technologies Limited, leading global provider of transmission solutions today announced that it has won a contract from BSNL, valued at Rs 372 Crores (US$ 77 Million), for enabling a Fiber-to-the-Home Network based on Gigabit Passive Optical Network technology.
89 lakh GSM mobile users added in June (ET)GSM mobile operators like Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Essar have together added 89 lakh new users in June this year, taking the total mobile subscriber base to 31.58 crore. According to the date released by the GSM representative body Cellular Operators' Association of India.
TTML crosses 8-million subscribers mark (HBL)Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Limited on Monday said that it has crossed the 8-million subscribers mark across its Mumbai and rest of Maharashtra circles.The increasing subscriber base stands testimony to Tata Indicom's constant endeavour to introduce products.
Sir ji strikes again (BS)For a long time, only those who spent hours in front of the television set, gorging junk snack food, qualified as couch potatoes. It was an unhealthy lifestyle, a sure recipe for disaster. Equally bad, it is now realised, is the lifestyle of those addicted to their mobile phones.
Number portability likely to thin margins, foster competition: RCom (HBL)With the mobile number portability expected to be launched between September 2009 and March 2010, In an interview to Business Line, Mr S.P. Shukla, President, Reliance Communications, shares his views on the implications of number portability on the cellular operators. Excerpts.
13.07.2009DoT to seek Trai view on 2G spectrum auction (BS)The Department of Telecom (DoT) is learnt to have decided to refer the Subhodh Kumar panel report on 2G spectrum to Trai before taking a call whether the radio waves be auctioned to operators. A senior DoT official said the report would be sent to Trai.
SEBI may seek more info as Bharti, MTN near $23 bn deal (ET)Market regulator SEBI today said it will seek more information from Bharti Airtel on its proposed USD 23 billion dollar deal and South African telecom giant MTN once there is more clarity on it. On the exemption given to MTN from open offer now.
USO subsidy in 2nd phase of rural mobile project may be limited to infra cos (HBL)The second phase of the rural mobile project being initiated by the Universal Services Obligation administrator may provide subsidy support only to infrastructure companies rolling out the proposed 11,000 towers.
Bharti Airtel's cables to host 23 global companies (ET)Bharti Airtel has signed deals with 23 global carriers of voice and data including Australia’s Telstra and UK-based Cable & Wireless, which will use the Indian firm’s submarine cable network to route their India traffic.
Ericsson India posts Rs 380-cr profit in 2008 (HBL)Ericsson India has generated revenues of over Rs 8,750 crore in 2008, according to numbers reported to credit rating agency ICRA. The Swedish telecom equipment maker generated profits of over Rs 380 crore from the Indian market.
Soon farmers can control irrigation with a cell phone (HBL)Tata Teleservices Ltd today inaugurated a pilot project at Sojitra in Anand district of Gujarat that allows farmers to operate their irrigation pumps from remote locations without having to travel to the farm.
Mobile tariffs to fall further (BS)Mobile tariffs in the world’s cheapest telecom market are set to fall further by at least 20-25 per cent during the year, thanks to the increasing number of telecom operators and infrastructure overcapacity.
10.07.2009MTNL eyes tieup with an MNC for 3G services (TOI)MTNL is finally breaking out of its slumber by teaming up with a telecom MNC to take on powerful brands like Airtel, Vodafone, Reliance, Tata and Idea in 3G services. This is historic as this is the first time any state-owned firm in India has attempted such a brave.
Tata Docomo launches GSM service in Ktk, earmarks $150 mn (ET)Tata Docomo, the GSM brand of Tata Teleservices Limited, on Thursday announced the commercial launch of its operations in Karnataka and will invest $ 2 billion for rolling out the services across the country.
Rs 1,000 cr investment over next 3 yrs in TN: Idea Cellular (ET)Idea Cellular, part of the Aditya Birla Group, operating in 18 circles in the country, has allocated Rs 1,000 crore as investments in Tamil Nadu for the next three years, a top company official said here on Thursday.
Reliance Communications partners With 3rd Space (TID)Reliance Communications, India’s leading telecom player, has partnered with UK based mobile marketing company, 3rd Space Services Limited, to launch advertising funded videos on its Reliance Mobile platform.
Idea gets nod to hive off tower business (ET)Idea Cellular has received the shareholders’ approval for hiving off its towers into a subsidiary — Idea Cellular Towers Infrastructure. This subsidiary will have Idea’s nearly 11,000 towers in nine circles and will merge with Indus Towers.
AirTel SMS offer (HBL)A new short messaging service (SMS) scheme launched here by AirTel will enable the user to send local messages at ten paisa each after sending the first three messages at one rupee each. The offer comes without any top-up voucher.
Intex rolls out dual SIM phones in India (EFY)Intex has launched the dual SIM cell phones -- IN 4488 and IN 3080 -- on GSM platform. These models are claimed to provide a seamless communication experience with two different GSM numbers (G+G).
09.07.2009Government defends spectrum allocation policy (ET)Facing allegations of irregularities in the allocation of 2G spectrum to telecom firms, the government Wednesday told the Delhi High Court that the rates were low as it was concerned more about consumers' benefits than earning revenue.
Defence, comm ministry clash over terms of spectrum pact (ET)After signing the much delayed memorandum of understanding (MoU), under which the armed forces will vacate spectrum or radio frequencies for commercial telephony in a phased manner, the communications and defence ministries are now involved in a new tiff.
BSNL shelves tower hive-off plan (ET)BSNL has shelved its plans to hive off its towers and other related infrastructure into a separate company on the likes of all major private operators, a top official with the company told ET. Last year, BSNL had drawn out a two-pronged strategy to improve its revenues.
Loop Telecom dials in first call from Karnataka and Kerala (TID)Loop Telecom today announced its first call in Karnataka and Kerala as it gears up to extend its presence across the country. Loop Telecom is the first amongst new GSM operators to have started operations in these two states.
S-Tel to invest Rs 2000 cr on mobile telephony (ET)Justice delayed may very well be justice denied for Sterling Infotech promoted telco S-Tel. The company, which won a legal battle over telecom licence allocation over the last two years, may not accept the hard won prize, if and when DoT allocates them.
Saudi firm in talks to invest in an Indian telecom infra firm (ET)Exsab International Holding, a Jeddah-based investment firm, on Wednesday said that it has initiated dialogue to invest in a couple of Indian firms."We generally invest $5-50 million in a firm. We are in discussion with a telecom infrastructure player.
IMImobile acquires UK co Mobytec (HBL)IMImobile, provider of converged mobile and online technology platforms and managed services to cellular service companies, has acquired Mobytec from the company Mobyko,for an undisclosed amount. Mobytec is a back-up and sharing service.
Vodafone recalls the pug after 10 months (HBL)The Vodafone pug paws its way back! The adorable little dog that captured hearts is back on TV after nearly 10 months. For those who thought the iconic pug was gone forever, after Vodafone unleashed the egg-head characters Zoozoos during IPL-2, this is indeed good news.
08.07.2009Green’ push to rural telecom (HBL)The Department of Telecom has decided to offer financial support from the Universal Services Obligation fund to telecom players using renewable source of energy to power their base stations in rural areas.
07.07.2009Govt hopes to collect Rs 35,000 cr from 3G spectrum auction (ET)The government has made a provision of collecting a whopping Rs 35,000 crore from the auction of third-generation (3G) radio spectrum. The Budget estimate of 2009-10 includes a sum of Rs 35,000 crore as expected revenue from auction of 3G spectrum.
3G boost to non-tax revenue (BS)In a year when India’s nominal Gross Domestic Product, or GDP, is expected to grow at 10.05 per cent, falling income tax and indirect duty collections, combined with abolition of certain taxes, has led Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee to Budget for a 2 per cent increase.
SC admits appeal of Cellular Operators Association (BS)The Supreme Court today admitted the appeal of the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) against the order of the Telecom Disputes and Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) in the controversy over dual spectrum allocation policy.
Tata Comm in global voice services agreement with BT (BS)Tata Communications has signed a major voice services agreement with BT Group that will allow two of the world's largest providers of voice and IP services to benefit from shared resources as part of a global supply arrangement.
Number portability may not see big churn, but may still hurt telcos (Mint)Freshly minted engineer Jayant Sonrexa, one among many thousands of irate mobile phone customers, says he is fed up with the quality of service provided by his operator, Bharti Airtel Ltd.
Asian Telecom : country wise mobile statistics (TID)China stands at first position, ready to touch 700 million mark in few months, followed by India which crossed 400 million mark in May. The third place is taken by Indonesia with more than 150 million subscribers.
06.07.2009BSNL directed to scrutinise Nokia Siemens Network bid (ET)On a plea by Nokia Siemens Network (NSN), the Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed BSNL to get scrutinised the rejection of NSN's techno-commercial bid by an independent committee, and provide a copy of the proceedings to the petitioners.
Deadline set for 2G allocation (HBL)The Telecom Dispute Settlement Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has asked the Department of Telecom to decide on the policy for allocating 2G spectrum within six weeks. The move comes after the DoT approached the Tribunal seeking more time to study the recommendations.
Reliance Communications ties up eSys Informa- tion Technology Ltd (TID)Reliance Communications, India’s largest and only telecom service provider to offer nationwide GSM and CDMA services, today announced a tie up with eSys Information Technology Ltd for distribution of high speed data cards through the IT retail channel across Punjab.
Bharti to seek open offer waiver (ET)Bharti Airtel, and South Africa’s largest operator, MTN, which are in $23-billion merger talks, will approach market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) to grant an exemption to the South African firm from making an open offer here following the deal.
Government forms EGoM on 3G spectrum; Pranab Mukherjee to head (ET)The government today constituted an Empowered Group of Ministers to look into issues relating to spectrum for 3G telephony that will revolutionise the way data is received and transferred from mobile phones.
Indian Telecom posts 103 Percent growth in FDI inflows: ASSOCHAM (EFY)Despite global recession and liquidity crunch, Indian economy registered 11 per cent rise in FDI with sectors like telecommunication, recording robust growth during fiscal 2008-09, according to a report by the Associated Chamber of Commerce and Industry of India.
BSNL fails to retire Rs 7,500 cr govt loan: CAG report (ET)State-run BSNL failed to retire a government loan of Rs 7,500 despite having a cash-reserve of Rs 18,829 crore as on March 2005, leading to an excess expenditure of Rs 1,089 crore on interest payment during 2005-07.
Sterlite Technologies wins Rs.372 crore BSNL contract (TID)Sterlite Technologies Limited, leading global provider of transmission solutions today announced that it has won a contract from BSNL, valued at Rs 372 Crores (US$ 77 Million), for enabling a Fiber-to-the-Home Network based on Gigabit Passive Optical Network technology.
89 lakh GSM mobile users added in June (ET)GSM mobile operators like Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Essar have together added 89 lakh new users in June this year, taking the total mobile subscriber base to 31.58 crore. According to the date released by the GSM representative body Cellular Operators' Association of India.
TTML crosses 8-million subscribers mark (HBL)Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Limited on Monday said that it has crossed the 8-million subscribers mark across its Mumbai and rest of Maharashtra circles.The increasing subscriber base stands testimony to Tata Indicom's constant endeavour to introduce products.
Sir ji strikes again (BS)For a long time, only those who spent hours in front of the television set, gorging junk snack food, qualified as couch potatoes. It was an unhealthy lifestyle, a sure recipe for disaster. Equally bad, it is now realised, is the lifestyle of those addicted to their mobile phones.
Number portability likely to thin margins, foster competition: RCom (HBL)With the mobile number portability expected to be launched between September 2009 and March 2010, In an interview to Business Line, Mr S.P. Shukla, President, Reliance Communications, shares his views on the implications of number portability on the cellular operators. Excerpts.
13.07.2009DoT to seek Trai view on 2G spectrum auction (BS)The Department of Telecom (DoT) is learnt to have decided to refer the Subhodh Kumar panel report on 2G spectrum to Trai before taking a call whether the radio waves be auctioned to operators. A senior DoT official said the report would be sent to Trai.
SEBI may seek more info as Bharti, MTN near $23 bn deal (ET)Market regulator SEBI today said it will seek more information from Bharti Airtel on its proposed USD 23 billion dollar deal and South African telecom giant MTN once there is more clarity on it. On the exemption given to MTN from open offer now.
USO subsidy in 2nd phase of rural mobile project may be limited to infra cos (HBL)The second phase of the rural mobile project being initiated by the Universal Services Obligation administrator may provide subsidy support only to infrastructure companies rolling out the proposed 11,000 towers.
Bharti Airtel's cables to host 23 global companies (ET)Bharti Airtel has signed deals with 23 global carriers of voice and data including Australia’s Telstra and UK-based Cable & Wireless, which will use the Indian firm’s submarine cable network to route their India traffic.
Ericsson India posts Rs 380-cr profit in 2008 (HBL)Ericsson India has generated revenues of over Rs 8,750 crore in 2008, according to numbers reported to credit rating agency ICRA. The Swedish telecom equipment maker generated profits of over Rs 380 crore from the Indian market.
Soon farmers can control irrigation with a cell phone (HBL)Tata Teleservices Ltd today inaugurated a pilot project at Sojitra in Anand district of Gujarat that allows farmers to operate their irrigation pumps from remote locations without having to travel to the farm.
Mobile tariffs to fall further (BS)Mobile tariffs in the world’s cheapest telecom market are set to fall further by at least 20-25 per cent during the year, thanks to the increasing number of telecom operators and infrastructure overcapacity.
10.07.2009MTNL eyes tieup with an MNC for 3G services (TOI)MTNL is finally breaking out of its slumber by teaming up with a telecom MNC to take on powerful brands like Airtel, Vodafone, Reliance, Tata and Idea in 3G services. This is historic as this is the first time any state-owned firm in India has attempted such a brave.
Tata Docomo launches GSM service in Ktk, earmarks $150 mn (ET)Tata Docomo, the GSM brand of Tata Teleservices Limited, on Thursday announced the commercial launch of its operations in Karnataka and will invest $ 2 billion for rolling out the services across the country.
Rs 1,000 cr investment over next 3 yrs in TN: Idea Cellular (ET)Idea Cellular, part of the Aditya Birla Group, operating in 18 circles in the country, has allocated Rs 1,000 crore as investments in Tamil Nadu for the next three years, a top company official said here on Thursday.
Reliance Communications partners With 3rd Space (TID)Reliance Communications, India’s leading telecom player, has partnered with UK based mobile marketing company, 3rd Space Services Limited, to launch advertising funded videos on its Reliance Mobile platform.
Idea gets nod to hive off tower business (ET)Idea Cellular has received the shareholders’ approval for hiving off its towers into a subsidiary — Idea Cellular Towers Infrastructure. This subsidiary will have Idea’s nearly 11,000 towers in nine circles and will merge with Indus Towers.
AirTel SMS offer (HBL)A new short messaging service (SMS) scheme launched here by AirTel will enable the user to send local messages at ten paisa each after sending the first three messages at one rupee each. The offer comes without any top-up voucher.
Intex rolls out dual SIM phones in India (EFY)Intex has launched the dual SIM cell phones -- IN 4488 and IN 3080 -- on GSM platform. These models are claimed to provide a seamless communication experience with two different GSM numbers (G+G).
09.07.2009Government defends spectrum allocation policy (ET)Facing allegations of irregularities in the allocation of 2G spectrum to telecom firms, the government Wednesday told the Delhi High Court that the rates were low as it was concerned more about consumers' benefits than earning revenue.
Defence, comm ministry clash over terms of spectrum pact (ET)After signing the much delayed memorandum of understanding (MoU), under which the armed forces will vacate spectrum or radio frequencies for commercial telephony in a phased manner, the communications and defence ministries are now involved in a new tiff.
BSNL shelves tower hive-off plan (ET)BSNL has shelved its plans to hive off its towers and other related infrastructure into a separate company on the likes of all major private operators, a top official with the company told ET. Last year, BSNL had drawn out a two-pronged strategy to improve its revenues.
Loop Telecom dials in first call from Karnataka and Kerala (TID)Loop Telecom today announced its first call in Karnataka and Kerala as it gears up to extend its presence across the country. Loop Telecom is the first amongst new GSM operators to have started operations in these two states.
S-Tel to invest Rs 2000 cr on mobile telephony (ET)Justice delayed may very well be justice denied for Sterling Infotech promoted telco S-Tel. The company, which won a legal battle over telecom licence allocation over the last two years, may not accept the hard won prize, if and when DoT allocates them.
Saudi firm in talks to invest in an Indian telecom infra firm (ET)Exsab International Holding, a Jeddah-based investment firm, on Wednesday said that it has initiated dialogue to invest in a couple of Indian firms."We generally invest $5-50 million in a firm. We are in discussion with a telecom infrastructure player.
IMImobile acquires UK co Mobytec (HBL)IMImobile, provider of converged mobile and online technology platforms and managed services to cellular service companies, has acquired Mobytec from the company Mobyko,for an undisclosed amount. Mobytec is a back-up and sharing service.
Vodafone recalls the pug after 10 months (HBL)The Vodafone pug paws its way back! The adorable little dog that captured hearts is back on TV after nearly 10 months. For those who thought the iconic pug was gone forever, after Vodafone unleashed the egg-head characters Zoozoos during IPL-2, this is indeed good news.
08.07.2009Green’ push to rural telecom (HBL)The Department of Telecom has decided to offer financial support from the Universal Services Obligation fund to telecom players using renewable source of energy to power their base stations in rural areas.
07.07.2009Govt hopes to collect Rs 35,000 cr from 3G spectrum auction (ET)The government has made a provision of collecting a whopping Rs 35,000 crore from the auction of third-generation (3G) radio spectrum. The Budget estimate of 2009-10 includes a sum of Rs 35,000 crore as expected revenue from auction of 3G spectrum.
3G boost to non-tax revenue (BS)In a year when India’s nominal Gross Domestic Product, or GDP, is expected to grow at 10.05 per cent, falling income tax and indirect duty collections, combined with abolition of certain taxes, has led Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee to Budget for a 2 per cent increase.
SC admits appeal of Cellular Operators Association (BS)The Supreme Court today admitted the appeal of the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) against the order of the Telecom Disputes and Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) in the controversy over dual spectrum allocation policy.
Tata Comm in global voice services agreement with BT (BS)Tata Communications has signed a major voice services agreement with BT Group that will allow two of the world's largest providers of voice and IP services to benefit from shared resources as part of a global supply arrangement.
Number portability may not see big churn, but may still hurt telcos (Mint)Freshly minted engineer Jayant Sonrexa, one among many thousands of irate mobile phone customers, says he is fed up with the quality of service provided by his operator, Bharti Airtel Ltd.
Asian Telecom : country wise mobile statistics (TID)China stands at first position, ready to touch 700 million mark in few months, followed by India which crossed 400 million mark in May. The third place is taken by Indonesia with more than 150 million subscribers.
06.07.2009BSNL directed to scrutinise Nokia Siemens Network bid (ET)On a plea by Nokia Siemens Network (NSN), the Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed BSNL to get scrutinised the rejection of NSN's techno-commercial bid by an independent committee, and provide a copy of the proceedings to the petitioners.
Deadline set for 2G allocation (HBL)The Telecom Dispute Settlement Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has asked the Department of Telecom to decide on the policy for allocating 2G spectrum within six weeks. The move comes after the DoT approached the Tribunal seeking more time to study the recommendations.
Reliance Communications ties up eSys Informa- tion Technology Ltd (TID)Reliance Communications, India’s largest and only telecom service provider to offer nationwide GSM and CDMA services, today announced a tie up with eSys Information Technology Ltd for distribution of high speed data cards through the IT retail channel across Punjab.
Bharti to seek open offer waiver (ET)Bharti Airtel, and South Africa’s largest operator, MTN, which are in $23-billion merger talks, will approach market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) to grant an exemption to the South African firm from making an open offer here following the deal.
Sistema Shyam to launch CDMA services in Jharkahnd (ET)Sistema Shyam Teleservices (SSTS), a JV between Russian mobile operator Sistema and India’s Shyam Group, is likely to launch its CDMA services this month in Jharkhand. It will be the eighth telco to start operations in the state.
Yota may partner MTNL, BSNL for WiMAX services (HBL)Intel Capital-backed Russian telecom operator Yota may strike an alliance with Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd and Bharat Sanchar Niogam Ltd to offer WiMAX-based broadband services in India.
Vodafone crosses 7 mn customer base in TN (FE)Vodafone, a major cellular operator has crossed seven million customer base in Tamil Nadu, registering year-on-year growth in Tamil Nadu for the last three years, a senior company official said.
02.07.2009DoT seeks Rs 9,970 cr for Defence network project (HBL)The Department of Telecom has approached the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs seeking Rs 9,970 crore for laying an optical fibre cable network for the armed forces in return for vacating spectrum.
3G auction in 3 months of GoM report' (HBL)The Communications and IT Minister, Mr A. Raja, said that the auction for third generation spectrum will be completed within three months of the Group of Ministers giving its report. A Group of Ministers headed by the Finance Minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee.
Govt defers Unitech Wireless proposal (ET)The government has again deferred a decision on allowing Norwegian telecom firm Telenor to hike stake in its Indian telecom joint venture, Unitech Wireless, up to 74 per cent as the Ministry of Home Affairs has sought for more time to examine the deal.
Airtel, RCom among world’s top 20 operators (HBL)Bharti Airtel and Reliance Communications are the only Indian players to feature in the top 20 operators worldwide in terms of subscriber base, according to Wireless Intelligence. Bharti Airtel is in the eighth spot with 93 million subscribers as at the end of first quarter of 2009.
RCOM may outsource services to cut costs (ET)Reliance Communications (RCOM) is looking at outsourcing the management of its broadband and fixed-line services in a bid to cut costs. The contract, which could be upwards of $1 billion, is likely to be awarded in the next 3-4 months.
Lineage Power recognised best in India by Indus Towers (TID)Lineage Power Corporation, the industry’s most experienced provider of intelligent power conversion systems, today announced that Indus Towers, a leading mobile tower company in India, has recognized Lineage for “Best Overall Performance”.
Now, 'biz on the go' with mobiles (BS)Bharti Airtel has over 100 million cellphone subscribers. Now it has launched an application which can take advantage of its wireless network, and be installed on any mobile handset to enable enterprises to access their data and do business from anywhere around the world.
UTStarcom a Leader in India, China IPTV Markets (TID)UTStarcom, Inc. (Nasdaq: UTSI) today announced that it has been named the No. 1 broadband equipment provider in India by Voice&Data magazine. Voice&Data is a leading Indian telecom publication.
Reliance BIG TV enters into an alliance with "Oxigen" (TID)Reliance BIG TV has entered into a tie-up with “Oxigen” India’s first and single point recharge service. According to this tie up Reliance BIG TV will offer its customers the entire portfolio of Oxigen’s easy recharge option.
MTS mobile in Mumbai, Delhi by year-end' (Mint)Vsevolod Rozanov, president & CEO, Sistema Shyam Teleservices Ltd (SSTL), spoke to DNA about the company's plans for its mobile service branded 'MTS', the importance of the India market, its IPO focus, and spectrum policy, among other issues.
01.07.2009Mobile numbers to begin with 8 now (ET)The scorching pace of growth of India’s mobile phone use is clear from the fact that the department of telecommunications has exhausted cell phone numbers beginning with 9. Soon, mobile phone companies are expected to issue cell phone numbers beginning with 8.
Telecom regulator issues regulations for number portability (ET)India's telecom regulator Tuesday issued draft regulations for mobile number portability (MNP), highlighting the rights, obligations and duties of service providers. MNP allows users to switch operators without changing numbers.
Voda can offer ISD, STD services, hive off tower business (ET)Vodafone Essar, the country’s second-largest GSM-based mobile operator, has finally received the go-ahead from the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) to hive off its towers and related infrastructure to a separate arm called Ortus Infratel.
Telcordia bags deal from Unitech Wireless (HBL)US-based Telcordia has bagged a contract from Unitech Wireless for supply of pre-paid mobile charging solution across the operator’s pan-Indian GSM network. The contract size is estimated at over $50 million. Telcordia recently bagged a similar contract from Aircel.
Reliance Globalcom saw strong growth in global managed services in 09 (TID)Reliance Globalcom's customer base has already expanded significantly. Since the start of the year several new multi-million dollar contracts have been signed. Revenue increased by 23% from INR15,257 million (US$323.653 million) 4Q 2008 to INR18,803 million 4Q 2009.
Essar arm gets Rs 450 cr investment from PAIDF (BS)Ruias-led Essar Telecom today said one of its subsidiaries in Kenya has received an investment of Rs 450 crore ($93.75 million) from the Pan-African Infrastructure Development Fund (PAIDF) to expand its footprint in East Africa.
Shyam group promoter Rajiv Mehrotra elected to Sistema board (Mint)Rajiv Mehrotra, the founder of Indian telecom firm Shyam Group, has been elected to the board of the diversified Russian group Sistema.Russian conglomerate Sistema has formed a joint venture with Shyam Telecom and has a pan-Indian licence to offer mobile services in India.
30.06.2009
Yota may partner MTNL, BSNL for WiMAX services (HBL)Intel Capital-backed Russian telecom operator Yota may strike an alliance with Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd and Bharat Sanchar Niogam Ltd to offer WiMAX-based broadband services in India.
Vodafone crosses 7 mn customer base in TN (FE)Vodafone, a major cellular operator has crossed seven million customer base in Tamil Nadu, registering year-on-year growth in Tamil Nadu for the last three years, a senior company official said.
02.07.2009DoT seeks Rs 9,970 cr for Defence network project (HBL)The Department of Telecom has approached the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs seeking Rs 9,970 crore for laying an optical fibre cable network for the armed forces in return for vacating spectrum.
3G auction in 3 months of GoM report' (HBL)The Communications and IT Minister, Mr A. Raja, said that the auction for third generation spectrum will be completed within three months of the Group of Ministers giving its report. A Group of Ministers headed by the Finance Minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee.
Govt defers Unitech Wireless proposal (ET)The government has again deferred a decision on allowing Norwegian telecom firm Telenor to hike stake in its Indian telecom joint venture, Unitech Wireless, up to 74 per cent as the Ministry of Home Affairs has sought for more time to examine the deal.
Airtel, RCom among world’s top 20 operators (HBL)Bharti Airtel and Reliance Communications are the only Indian players to feature in the top 20 operators worldwide in terms of subscriber base, according to Wireless Intelligence. Bharti Airtel is in the eighth spot with 93 million subscribers as at the end of first quarter of 2009.
RCOM may outsource services to cut costs (ET)Reliance Communications (RCOM) is looking at outsourcing the management of its broadband and fixed-line services in a bid to cut costs. The contract, which could be upwards of $1 billion, is likely to be awarded in the next 3-4 months.
Lineage Power recognised best in India by Indus Towers (TID)Lineage Power Corporation, the industry’s most experienced provider of intelligent power conversion systems, today announced that Indus Towers, a leading mobile tower company in India, has recognized Lineage for “Best Overall Performance”.
Now, 'biz on the go' with mobiles (BS)Bharti Airtel has over 100 million cellphone subscribers. Now it has launched an application which can take advantage of its wireless network, and be installed on any mobile handset to enable enterprises to access their data and do business from anywhere around the world.
UTStarcom a Leader in India, China IPTV Markets (TID)UTStarcom, Inc. (Nasdaq: UTSI) today announced that it has been named the No. 1 broadband equipment provider in India by Voice&Data magazine. Voice&Data is a leading Indian telecom publication.
Reliance BIG TV enters into an alliance with "Oxigen" (TID)Reliance BIG TV has entered into a tie-up with “Oxigen” India’s first and single point recharge service. According to this tie up Reliance BIG TV will offer its customers the entire portfolio of Oxigen’s easy recharge option.
MTS mobile in Mumbai, Delhi by year-end' (Mint)Vsevolod Rozanov, president & CEO, Sistema Shyam Teleservices Ltd (SSTL), spoke to DNA about the company's plans for its mobile service branded 'MTS', the importance of the India market, its IPO focus, and spectrum policy, among other issues.
01.07.2009Mobile numbers to begin with 8 now (ET)The scorching pace of growth of India’s mobile phone use is clear from the fact that the department of telecommunications has exhausted cell phone numbers beginning with 9. Soon, mobile phone companies are expected to issue cell phone numbers beginning with 8.
Telecom regulator issues regulations for number portability (ET)India's telecom regulator Tuesday issued draft regulations for mobile number portability (MNP), highlighting the rights, obligations and duties of service providers. MNP allows users to switch operators without changing numbers.
Voda can offer ISD, STD services, hive off tower business (ET)Vodafone Essar, the country’s second-largest GSM-based mobile operator, has finally received the go-ahead from the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) to hive off its towers and related infrastructure to a separate arm called Ortus Infratel.
Telcordia bags deal from Unitech Wireless (HBL)US-based Telcordia has bagged a contract from Unitech Wireless for supply of pre-paid mobile charging solution across the operator’s pan-Indian GSM network. The contract size is estimated at over $50 million. Telcordia recently bagged a similar contract from Aircel.
Reliance Globalcom saw strong growth in global managed services in 09 (TID)Reliance Globalcom's customer base has already expanded significantly. Since the start of the year several new multi-million dollar contracts have been signed. Revenue increased by 23% from INR15,257 million (US$323.653 million) 4Q 2008 to INR18,803 million 4Q 2009.
Essar arm gets Rs 450 cr investment from PAIDF (BS)Ruias-led Essar Telecom today said one of its subsidiaries in Kenya has received an investment of Rs 450 crore ($93.75 million) from the Pan-African Infrastructure Development Fund (PAIDF) to expand its footprint in East Africa.
Shyam group promoter Rajiv Mehrotra elected to Sistema board (Mint)Rajiv Mehrotra, the founder of Indian telecom firm Shyam Group, has been elected to the board of the diversified Russian group Sistema.Russian conglomerate Sistema has formed a joint venture with Shyam Telecom and has a pan-Indian licence to offer mobile services in India.
30.06.2009
BSNL launches its wireless broadband service in Goa (DNA)Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) today announced the full scale commercial launch of its wireless broadband service in Goa. The company, which is India's state-owned and largest telecommunication provider, targets to cover 10,000 customers in Goa in the first phase.
Bharti Airtel yet to talk with govts on MTN deal (ET)The Chairman of India's Bharti Airtel said on Monday the group had not yet held talks with the Indian or South African governments about a proposed merger with Africa's biggest mobile operator MTN Group.
Vodafone expands into 7 new regions across India (EFY)Vodafone Essar has completed a rapid service expansion into seven new regions across India. People living in or travelling to Assam, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Madhya Pradesh, North East and Orissa will now be able to use services provided.
Aircel launches mobile services in Pune (HBL)Telecom operator Aircel on Monday announced the launch of its GSM mobile services in Pune.With a subscriber base of over 20 million, Aircel has extended its services to Pune after having rolled out its 17th circle with Mumbai, Aircel said in a statement.
Tech Mahindra ties up with WIN (HBL)Systems integration and business transformation specialist. Under the terms of the initial agreement,Mr Jagdish Mitra, CEO CanvasM (Tech Mahindra’s VAS subsidiary) said, “WIN has been a leader in providing VAS services in Europe and their expertise in delivering information.
Tulip Telecom Q4 net up 60% (HBL)Tulip Telecom Ltd has reported a 60% jump in fourth quarter net profit, boosted by other income from cancelled overseas convertible bonds. Net profit for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 rose to Rs 107 crore from Rs 66.29 crore shown during the same period.
29.06.2009DoT may peg entry fee for telecom licence at Rs 45 cr (HBL)The Department of Telecom proposes to peg the one-time entry fee for new telecom licences at Rs 45 crore for pan-India unified access services. This licence will not be bundled with spectrum.
BSNL, MTNL in alliance with Conexus to offer data roaming (ET)State-run telecom operators BSNL and MTNL on Friday said they have entered into an alliance with Conexus Mobile to offer their subscribers a flat international data roaming plan. "As part of the agreement the customers of MTNL and BSNL would get unlimited data roaming service.
BSNL mulls inducting foreign telco as strategic partner (ET)Amid falling revenues and profits, state-owned BSNL is mulling a proposal to induct a strong foreign telecom operator as a strategic partner to reverse its fortunes, a move that may yield more money to the government than from listing or disinvestment.
BSNL launches desktop PC for Rs6,500 (DNA)Believe it or not. Here is a desktop computer for just Rs1,900 and Rs6,500. The state owned telecom company, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) launched Novatium's netPC in Gujarat on Friday. The computers are made by Chennai-based company.
BSNL launches Blackberry, Live Tutor, Wimax services (ET)The BSNL on Saturday launched three services-Blackberry service, Live Tutor, and wimax in Krishna district. Speaking on the occassion, BSNL Krishna district region General Manager M John Kristostam explained the features of the services.
Tata Tele to invest about Rs 10,000 cr for GSM operations (ET)With plans to invest about Rs 10,000 crore this year to expand its network in the country, Tata Docomo, the GSM brand of Tata Teleservices, today announced commercial launch of its operations in Orissa.
Ex-Vodacom chief gives thumbs up to MTN-Bharti deal (ET)Alan Knott-Craig, the former CEO of the Vodacom Group, has given his thumbs up to the proposed deal between Bharti Airtel and South Africa’s MTN. Vodacom is an African mobile service provider and operates in South Africa, Tanzania and Mozambique.
26.06.2009
Tata Comm forges global alliance with Telx (BS)Tata Communications today said it has tied up with North American interconnection and colocation data centre operator Telx for providing solutions to its customers in the US.The tie-up would leverage each firm's colocation space in their respective countries of operation.
Tata DoCoMo to cover south soon (BS)Tata DoCoMo, the GSM brand of Tata Teleservices Limited (TTSL), on Thursday launched its operations in Kerala. Speaking to the media in Kochi, TTSL managing director Anil Sardana said the service would be extended to the entire south India within a fortnight.
Firstsource bags Rs 1450 million contract from Idea (BPOTimes)Firstsource Solutions, a global BPO services provider and Idea Cellular have entered into a five-year, Rs 1,450 million outsourcing agreement. Firstsource will provide a suite of customer management interaction services including customer service.
Cambodian mobile operator deploys comverse ONE (EFY)Sotelco, a new Cambodian mobile operator, has deployed the Comverse ONE Billing and Active Customer Management solution from Comverse to support pre-paid and post-paid subscribers and roll out bundled multi-play service offerings.
Not just all 'talk' (BS)With over a dozen new inventions, the Indian handset industry has over the past 12 months gradually come of age and become innovative.Take, for instance, the ‘Aurum’ handset from Tata Teleservices which has an ‘alert key.
25.06.2009Tata DoCoMo rolls out GSM service in Chennai, Tamil Nadu (BS)Tata DoCoMo, the joint venture between telecom majors Tata Teleservices (TTSL) and Japan-based NTT DoCoMo today forayed into GSM operations by launching its service in Chennai and Tamil Nadu circles today.
Etisalat enters India, sets up back office at Ambattur in North Chennai (ET)UAE based telecommunications service provider Emirates Telecommunications or Etisalat has quietly begun work on its entry into the Indian market, by setting up a back office operations centre at the India Land Properties’ IT park – India Land Tech Park.
Fly adds new service centres across India (EFY)UK-based Meridian Mobile, which has made the Fly mobile phone available in 25 countries, is expanding its customer service programme to not only serve its current consumer base but also to reach out to potential consumers.
QTIL hires Biswarup Goswami as chief people's officer (EFY)The Quippo Group has appointed Biswarup Goswami as the chief people's officer of Quippo Telecom Infrastructure Limited (QTIL). Goswami will play a pivotal role in facilitating the process of making QTIL as the 'most valued telecom infra company.
24.06.2009DoT slaps fine on mobile operators (HBL)The Department of Telecom has imposed a penalty on mobile operators, including Bharti Airtel, Reliance Communications, Tata Teleservices, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd and Idea Cellular for not verifying the details of all their subscribers.
BSNL to launch 3G in Sikkim (ET)State-owned telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) is set to launch third generation (3G) mobile services in Gangtok by Aug 15, the government has said. Announcing this in Gangtok Monday.
BSNL hopes to hear from govt on IPO soon (ET)Telecom firm Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd hopes to hear soon from the federal government on its initial public offer plans and will appoint merchant bankers, Chairman Kuldeep Goyal said on Tuesday.
RCom to tie up with Apalya Tech (BS)Reliance Communications (RCom), the flagship company of Reliance-Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group, is in advanced talks to forge a technical alliance with Hyderabad-based Apalya Technologies to offer MobiTV services on its GSM network.
Idea to raise Rs 6,000 cr for new rollouts in next 2 years (ET)Aditya Birla Group company Idea Cellular is raising Rs 6,000 crore ($1.2 billion) through a mix of foreign currency and rupee debt at a time when most corporates are finding it difficult to raise funds on the back of a global credit crunch.
UTStarcom ranked no. 1 in Indian broadband equipment market (TID)UTStarcom, Inc. (Nasdaq: UTSI) today announced that it has been named the No. 1 broadband equipment provider in India. UTStarcom’s broadband solutions enable deployment of IP-based, high-speed Internet, voice, data and multimedia services over wireline and optical networks.
MTS touches 1.5 Lakh subscriber mark in Tamil Nadu (EFY)Sistema Shyam TeleServices Ltd (SSTL) has reached a subscriber base of 1.5 lakh for its service brand MTS. The company says MTS is charting new growth frontiers by expanding its reach to newer regions.
Nokia launches eight megapixel handset 'N86’ (FE)Mobile handset maker Nokia on Tuesday announced the launch of eight megapixel handset Nokia N86 8MP in Chandigarh. Priced at Rs. 27,359, the new handset comes in a dual-slide design with 8 GB of internal memory could hold up to 4000 images.
HTC bringing first Android phone to India! (EFY)Smartphone manufacturer HTC will unveil India's first Android mobile handset, based on the open source platform for mobile devices, in the Indian market today. HTC is the founding member of the Open Handset Alliance -- a consortium of software.
Spice M-5252: a multi SIM GSM phone @ Rs 3,499 (EFY)Spice Mobiles has rolled out its new multi SIM GSM phone called Spice M-5252, loaded with features like wireless radio, motion sensor and intelligent quick search. The first phone launched under Spice Mobiles' 'BIG series.
Navin Kaul joins QTIL as president, operations (EFY)The Quippo Group has appointed Navin Kaul as the president, operations of Quippo Telecom Infrastructure Limited (QTIL). He has joined as a key member of the leadership team to implement Quippo's vision.
23.06.2009MTNL dials data first for 3G services in Mumbai (DNA)MTNL, the public sector telecom firm, will introduce 3G data services for the first time in the country when it launches the service in Mumbai on June 30. Since a 3G network allows faster data services MTNL wants to use its upgraded network to offer data services first.
Tata photon+ mobile broadband and service launched in New Delhi (EFY)Tata Teleservices Limited has rolled out Photon+ (Mobile Broadband Internet Device) in New Delhi. Tata Photon+ wireless broadband service is claimed to be up to 20 times faster than existing mobile wireless technology.
Aircel dials Tata-Quippo to sell 12,000 towers (ET)Aircel has begun negotiations to sell its 12,000 mobile telephone towers, a move seen helping the company raise money as it expands into new territories and readies for the auction of wireless airwaves to provide high-speed data services.
Rel Comm gains 3% on tie-up talks (BS)The stock opened at Rs 307 and gained 3.5% to a high of Rs 316. However, it slipped from the day's high and is now trading at Rs 311, 2% higher. The counter has clocked hefty volumes of 1.44 million shares so far on the BSE.
Now enter the world of Zoozoos! (TID)Vodafone Essar, one of India’s leading cellular services providers, has announced a special offer for Zoozoo fans across Karnataka. Customers can now get special Zoozoo DVDs from any Vodafone Store in Karnataka. 22.06.2009
DoT asks telcos for IMEI list (ET)After banning the import of all mobile handsets that do not have a unique international identification code, the government has now decided to crack down on telcos who still allow their subscribers to use such handsets on their networks.
Coming soon, a super regulator for spectrum (ET)The communication ministry has floated the idea of an independent spectrum regulator with powers to oversee all issues related to allocation, pricing, monitoring and withdrawal of airwaves, on which all communication signals travel.
India added 11.59 million wireless subscribers in May 2009 (TID)The total wireless subscribers (GSM, CDMA & WLL(F)) base stood at 415.25 million at the end of May 2009. A total of 11.59 million wireless subscribers have been added during the month of May 2009 as against 11.90 million wireless subscribers added during the month of April 2009.
Tata Tele may start GSM services in Tamil Nadu this week (ET)Tata Teleservices is likely to launch its GSM services nationally under the Tata DoCoMo brand this week, that may start with Tamil Nadu circle.Sources said the company has lined up GSM launch in Orissa, Kerala, Karnataka in the next 10 days.
Bharti promoter group hikes stake in Airtel to 67.4% (ET)Bharti promoter group have hiked their stake in the country’s largest cellular operator Bharti Airtel by 0.256% in a deal worth Rs 402 crore. One of the promoter group firms Indian Continent Investment has acquired the additional stake through off market transactions.
Sivasankaran acquires control of S Tel (ET)Prominent investor C Sivasankaran has re-entered the fledgling Indian telecom industry by acquiring a 51% stake in Chennai-based telecom firm S Tel, three-and-a-half years after it pulled out of Aircel.
Airtel Andhra circle crosses 10mn customer mark (BS)Mobile operator Bharti Airtel Limited has crossed the 10-million customer mark in Andhra Pradesh, the second circle of the company to have achieved this feat after Karnataka. Sharlin Thayil, chief executive officer (mobile services) of Airtel's AP circle.
Now read your favourite newspaper on mobile! (EFY)Eterno Infotech Pvt Ltd, a mobile applications company, has launched NewsHunt -- a mobile application to read popular and branded English as well as regional language newspapers on the mobile phones.
19.06.2009
Essar in talks for $900 mn loan: Sources (ET)Essar group plans to raise $900 million via a 2-½ year loan, by pledging a part of its stake in the country's third-biggest mobile firm, Vodafone Essar, two sources with direct knowledge of the deal, said.
Nokia Siemens Networks to upgrade Idea Cellular network (BS)Telecom equipment vendor Nokia Siemens Network will upgrade the existing mobile services network of Idea Cellular to enable it to carry high-end data — GPRS services. The services will be enabled by Nokia Siemens Networks’ GPRS technology and Unified Charging Solution.
Sterlite Tech bags Rs 250-cr contract from BSNL (HBL)Sterlite Technologies, backed by Chinese vendor Huawei, has been awarded a Rs 250-crore contract by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd to roll out the next generation of broadband technology called Gigabit-capable Passive Optical Network (GPON).
Q Investment closes sale of XCEL Telecom to ATC (BS)Leading US-based private equity firm Q Investment has closed the transaction to sell 100 per cent shareholding in its incubated telecom tower firm XCEL Telecom to American Tower Corporation (ATC). When contacted, Pranav Parikh, managing director of Q India confirmed.
Spice Comm net loss at Rs 1,015 cr (BS)Telecom service provider Spice Communications today reported a net loss of Rs 1,015.22 crore for the 15 months ended March 31, 2009, while it had a net profit of Rs 380.13 crore in the period ended December 2007.
Phi Tele in talks with MNCs for WiMax services (HBL)Phi Televentures, a company recently started by high profile corporate executives, is in talks with a number of international players, including Russia-based Yota and Bahrain headquartered Wi-Tribe, to form a joint venture for rolling out WiMax-enabled broadband.
Nu Tek India FY2008-09 net at Rs 27.05 crore (EFY)Telecom infrastructure services provider Nu Tek India Limited has registered consolidated net profit (adjusted) of Rs 27.05 crore for the year ended 31 March 2009. The consolidated income from operations for the same period was Rs 180.3 crore.
Vodafone to cash in on the 'Zoozoo' wave (DNA)Cashing in on the popularity of its 'Zoozoo' advertisement, Vodafone Essar, one of India's leading cellular services providers, has announced an offer of free special Zoozoo DVDs, containing 29 Zoozoo ads, for those availing new postpaid connections.
Bharti Airtel yet to talk with govts on MTN deal (ET)The Chairman of India's Bharti Airtel said on Monday the group had not yet held talks with the Indian or South African governments about a proposed merger with Africa's biggest mobile operator MTN Group.
Vodafone expands into 7 new regions across India (EFY)Vodafone Essar has completed a rapid service expansion into seven new regions across India. People living in or travelling to Assam, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Madhya Pradesh, North East and Orissa will now be able to use services provided.
Aircel launches mobile services in Pune (HBL)Telecom operator Aircel on Monday announced the launch of its GSM mobile services in Pune.With a subscriber base of over 20 million, Aircel has extended its services to Pune after having rolled out its 17th circle with Mumbai, Aircel said in a statement.
Tech Mahindra ties up with WIN (HBL)Systems integration and business transformation specialist. Under the terms of the initial agreement,Mr Jagdish Mitra, CEO CanvasM (Tech Mahindra’s VAS subsidiary) said, “WIN has been a leader in providing VAS services in Europe and their expertise in delivering information.
Tulip Telecom Q4 net up 60% (HBL)Tulip Telecom Ltd has reported a 60% jump in fourth quarter net profit, boosted by other income from cancelled overseas convertible bonds. Net profit for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 rose to Rs 107 crore from Rs 66.29 crore shown during the same period.
29.06.2009DoT may peg entry fee for telecom licence at Rs 45 cr (HBL)The Department of Telecom proposes to peg the one-time entry fee for new telecom licences at Rs 45 crore for pan-India unified access services. This licence will not be bundled with spectrum.
BSNL, MTNL in alliance with Conexus to offer data roaming (ET)State-run telecom operators BSNL and MTNL on Friday said they have entered into an alliance with Conexus Mobile to offer their subscribers a flat international data roaming plan. "As part of the agreement the customers of MTNL and BSNL would get unlimited data roaming service.
BSNL mulls inducting foreign telco as strategic partner (ET)Amid falling revenues and profits, state-owned BSNL is mulling a proposal to induct a strong foreign telecom operator as a strategic partner to reverse its fortunes, a move that may yield more money to the government than from listing or disinvestment.
BSNL launches desktop PC for Rs6,500 (DNA)Believe it or not. Here is a desktop computer for just Rs1,900 and Rs6,500. The state owned telecom company, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) launched Novatium's netPC in Gujarat on Friday. The computers are made by Chennai-based company.
BSNL launches Blackberry, Live Tutor, Wimax services (ET)The BSNL on Saturday launched three services-Blackberry service, Live Tutor, and wimax in Krishna district. Speaking on the occassion, BSNL Krishna district region General Manager M John Kristostam explained the features of the services.
Tata Tele to invest about Rs 10,000 cr for GSM operations (ET)With plans to invest about Rs 10,000 crore this year to expand its network in the country, Tata Docomo, the GSM brand of Tata Teleservices, today announced commercial launch of its operations in Orissa.
Ex-Vodacom chief gives thumbs up to MTN-Bharti deal (ET)Alan Knott-Craig, the former CEO of the Vodacom Group, has given his thumbs up to the proposed deal between Bharti Airtel and South Africa’s MTN. Vodacom is an African mobile service provider and operates in South Africa, Tanzania and Mozambique.
26.06.2009
Tata Comm forges global alliance with Telx (BS)Tata Communications today said it has tied up with North American interconnection and colocation data centre operator Telx for providing solutions to its customers in the US.The tie-up would leverage each firm's colocation space in their respective countries of operation.
Tata DoCoMo to cover south soon (BS)Tata DoCoMo, the GSM brand of Tata Teleservices Limited (TTSL), on Thursday launched its operations in Kerala. Speaking to the media in Kochi, TTSL managing director Anil Sardana said the service would be extended to the entire south India within a fortnight.
Firstsource bags Rs 1450 million contract from Idea (BPOTimes)Firstsource Solutions, a global BPO services provider and Idea Cellular have entered into a five-year, Rs 1,450 million outsourcing agreement. Firstsource will provide a suite of customer management interaction services including customer service.
Cambodian mobile operator deploys comverse ONE (EFY)Sotelco, a new Cambodian mobile operator, has deployed the Comverse ONE Billing and Active Customer Management solution from Comverse to support pre-paid and post-paid subscribers and roll out bundled multi-play service offerings.
Not just all 'talk' (BS)With over a dozen new inventions, the Indian handset industry has over the past 12 months gradually come of age and become innovative.Take, for instance, the ‘Aurum’ handset from Tata Teleservices which has an ‘alert key.
25.06.2009Tata DoCoMo rolls out GSM service in Chennai, Tamil Nadu (BS)Tata DoCoMo, the joint venture between telecom majors Tata Teleservices (TTSL) and Japan-based NTT DoCoMo today forayed into GSM operations by launching its service in Chennai and Tamil Nadu circles today.
Etisalat enters India, sets up back office at Ambattur in North Chennai (ET)UAE based telecommunications service provider Emirates Telecommunications or Etisalat has quietly begun work on its entry into the Indian market, by setting up a back office operations centre at the India Land Properties’ IT park – India Land Tech Park.
Fly adds new service centres across India (EFY)UK-based Meridian Mobile, which has made the Fly mobile phone available in 25 countries, is expanding its customer service programme to not only serve its current consumer base but also to reach out to potential consumers.
QTIL hires Biswarup Goswami as chief people's officer (EFY)The Quippo Group has appointed Biswarup Goswami as the chief people's officer of Quippo Telecom Infrastructure Limited (QTIL). Goswami will play a pivotal role in facilitating the process of making QTIL as the 'most valued telecom infra company.
24.06.2009DoT slaps fine on mobile operators (HBL)The Department of Telecom has imposed a penalty on mobile operators, including Bharti Airtel, Reliance Communications, Tata Teleservices, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd and Idea Cellular for not verifying the details of all their subscribers.
BSNL to launch 3G in Sikkim (ET)State-owned telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) is set to launch third generation (3G) mobile services in Gangtok by Aug 15, the government has said. Announcing this in Gangtok Monday.
BSNL hopes to hear from govt on IPO soon (ET)Telecom firm Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd hopes to hear soon from the federal government on its initial public offer plans and will appoint merchant bankers, Chairman Kuldeep Goyal said on Tuesday.
RCom to tie up with Apalya Tech (BS)Reliance Communications (RCom), the flagship company of Reliance-Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group, is in advanced talks to forge a technical alliance with Hyderabad-based Apalya Technologies to offer MobiTV services on its GSM network.
Idea to raise Rs 6,000 cr for new rollouts in next 2 years (ET)Aditya Birla Group company Idea Cellular is raising Rs 6,000 crore ($1.2 billion) through a mix of foreign currency and rupee debt at a time when most corporates are finding it difficult to raise funds on the back of a global credit crunch.
UTStarcom ranked no. 1 in Indian broadband equipment market (TID)UTStarcom, Inc. (Nasdaq: UTSI) today announced that it has been named the No. 1 broadband equipment provider in India. UTStarcom’s broadband solutions enable deployment of IP-based, high-speed Internet, voice, data and multimedia services over wireline and optical networks.
MTS touches 1.5 Lakh subscriber mark in Tamil Nadu (EFY)Sistema Shyam TeleServices Ltd (SSTL) has reached a subscriber base of 1.5 lakh for its service brand MTS. The company says MTS is charting new growth frontiers by expanding its reach to newer regions.
Nokia launches eight megapixel handset 'N86’ (FE)Mobile handset maker Nokia on Tuesday announced the launch of eight megapixel handset Nokia N86 8MP in Chandigarh. Priced at Rs. 27,359, the new handset comes in a dual-slide design with 8 GB of internal memory could hold up to 4000 images.
HTC bringing first Android phone to India! (EFY)Smartphone manufacturer HTC will unveil India's first Android mobile handset, based on the open source platform for mobile devices, in the Indian market today. HTC is the founding member of the Open Handset Alliance -- a consortium of software.
Spice M-5252: a multi SIM GSM phone @ Rs 3,499 (EFY)Spice Mobiles has rolled out its new multi SIM GSM phone called Spice M-5252, loaded with features like wireless radio, motion sensor and intelligent quick search. The first phone launched under Spice Mobiles' 'BIG series.
Navin Kaul joins QTIL as president, operations (EFY)The Quippo Group has appointed Navin Kaul as the president, operations of Quippo Telecom Infrastructure Limited (QTIL). He has joined as a key member of the leadership team to implement Quippo's vision.
23.06.2009MTNL dials data first for 3G services in Mumbai (DNA)MTNL, the public sector telecom firm, will introduce 3G data services for the first time in the country when it launches the service in Mumbai on June 30. Since a 3G network allows faster data services MTNL wants to use its upgraded network to offer data services first.
Tata photon+ mobile broadband and service launched in New Delhi (EFY)Tata Teleservices Limited has rolled out Photon+ (Mobile Broadband Internet Device) in New Delhi. Tata Photon+ wireless broadband service is claimed to be up to 20 times faster than existing mobile wireless technology.
Aircel dials Tata-Quippo to sell 12,000 towers (ET)Aircel has begun negotiations to sell its 12,000 mobile telephone towers, a move seen helping the company raise money as it expands into new territories and readies for the auction of wireless airwaves to provide high-speed data services.
Rel Comm gains 3% on tie-up talks (BS)The stock opened at Rs 307 and gained 3.5% to a high of Rs 316. However, it slipped from the day's high and is now trading at Rs 311, 2% higher. The counter has clocked hefty volumes of 1.44 million shares so far on the BSE.
Now enter the world of Zoozoos! (TID)Vodafone Essar, one of India’s leading cellular services providers, has announced a special offer for Zoozoo fans across Karnataka. Customers can now get special Zoozoo DVDs from any Vodafone Store in Karnataka. 22.06.2009
DoT asks telcos for IMEI list (ET)After banning the import of all mobile handsets that do not have a unique international identification code, the government has now decided to crack down on telcos who still allow their subscribers to use such handsets on their networks.
Coming soon, a super regulator for spectrum (ET)The communication ministry has floated the idea of an independent spectrum regulator with powers to oversee all issues related to allocation, pricing, monitoring and withdrawal of airwaves, on which all communication signals travel.
India added 11.59 million wireless subscribers in May 2009 (TID)The total wireless subscribers (GSM, CDMA & WLL(F)) base stood at 415.25 million at the end of May 2009. A total of 11.59 million wireless subscribers have been added during the month of May 2009 as against 11.90 million wireless subscribers added during the month of April 2009.
Tata Tele may start GSM services in Tamil Nadu this week (ET)Tata Teleservices is likely to launch its GSM services nationally under the Tata DoCoMo brand this week, that may start with Tamil Nadu circle.Sources said the company has lined up GSM launch in Orissa, Kerala, Karnataka in the next 10 days.
Bharti promoter group hikes stake in Airtel to 67.4% (ET)Bharti promoter group have hiked their stake in the country’s largest cellular operator Bharti Airtel by 0.256% in a deal worth Rs 402 crore. One of the promoter group firms Indian Continent Investment has acquired the additional stake through off market transactions.
Sivasankaran acquires control of S Tel (ET)Prominent investor C Sivasankaran has re-entered the fledgling Indian telecom industry by acquiring a 51% stake in Chennai-based telecom firm S Tel, three-and-a-half years after it pulled out of Aircel.
Airtel Andhra circle crosses 10mn customer mark (BS)Mobile operator Bharti Airtel Limited has crossed the 10-million customer mark in Andhra Pradesh, the second circle of the company to have achieved this feat after Karnataka. Sharlin Thayil, chief executive officer (mobile services) of Airtel's AP circle.
Now read your favourite newspaper on mobile! (EFY)Eterno Infotech Pvt Ltd, a mobile applications company, has launched NewsHunt -- a mobile application to read popular and branded English as well as regional language newspapers on the mobile phones.
19.06.2009
Essar in talks for $900 mn loan: Sources (ET)Essar group plans to raise $900 million via a 2-½ year loan, by pledging a part of its stake in the country's third-biggest mobile firm, Vodafone Essar, two sources with direct knowledge of the deal, said.
Nokia Siemens Networks to upgrade Idea Cellular network (BS)Telecom equipment vendor Nokia Siemens Network will upgrade the existing mobile services network of Idea Cellular to enable it to carry high-end data — GPRS services. The services will be enabled by Nokia Siemens Networks’ GPRS technology and Unified Charging Solution.
Sterlite Tech bags Rs 250-cr contract from BSNL (HBL)Sterlite Technologies, backed by Chinese vendor Huawei, has been awarded a Rs 250-crore contract by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd to roll out the next generation of broadband technology called Gigabit-capable Passive Optical Network (GPON).
Q Investment closes sale of XCEL Telecom to ATC (BS)Leading US-based private equity firm Q Investment has closed the transaction to sell 100 per cent shareholding in its incubated telecom tower firm XCEL Telecom to American Tower Corporation (ATC). When contacted, Pranav Parikh, managing director of Q India confirmed.
Spice Comm net loss at Rs 1,015 cr (BS)Telecom service provider Spice Communications today reported a net loss of Rs 1,015.22 crore for the 15 months ended March 31, 2009, while it had a net profit of Rs 380.13 crore in the period ended December 2007.
Phi Tele in talks with MNCs for WiMax services (HBL)Phi Televentures, a company recently started by high profile corporate executives, is in talks with a number of international players, including Russia-based Yota and Bahrain headquartered Wi-Tribe, to form a joint venture for rolling out WiMax-enabled broadband.
Nu Tek India FY2008-09 net at Rs 27.05 crore (EFY)Telecom infrastructure services provider Nu Tek India Limited has registered consolidated net profit (adjusted) of Rs 27.05 crore for the year ended 31 March 2009. The consolidated income from operations for the same period was Rs 180.3 crore.
Vodafone to cash in on the 'Zoozoo' wave (DNA)Cashing in on the popularity of its 'Zoozoo' advertisement, Vodafone Essar, one of India's leading cellular services providers, has announced an offer of free special Zoozoo DVDs, containing 29 Zoozoo ads, for those availing new postpaid connections.
18.06.2009
Nokia Siemens did not meet tender requirement: BSNL (HBL)The State-owned BSNL on Wednesday justified the disqualification of Nokia Siemens from the mega 93 million GSM line expansion, saying the Finnish company did not provide specification with regard to subscriber information as per the PSU's requirement.
Telcos' wait for airwaves gets longer (ET)The wait for additional airwaves, key for mobile operators to expand their customer base, has just got longer, with the telecom ministry deciding to make any decision on this only after the upcoming auction of third-generation spectrum.
BSNL to set up six Wi-Max stations in Ganjam, Gajapati (BS)Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has decided to set up six Wi-Max (wireless broadband) stations in its Berhampur telecom district (BTD). The Berhampur telecom district covers the Ganjam and Gajapati districts in south Orissa.
BSNL to outsource customer-care to BPOs (HBL)
To ramp up its customer service capabilities, state-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd is scouting for private call centre units that can operate contact centres for addressing complaints from fixed line and broadband subscribers across the country.
Tata Teleservices ties up with ECI Telecom (EFY)
Tata Teleservices Limited (TTSL) and Israel-based ECI Telecom announced that they have partnered to deliver India's largest fixed-broadband access network supporting speeds of up to 18 Mbps. As part of the frame agreement.
MTS forays into new service areas of West Bengal (EFY)
Sistema Shyam Teleservices Limited (SSTL) has announced the launch of its fifth circle and has expanded the coverage of its service brand MTS to 11 districts of West Bengal. This foray marks the entry of MTS into 250 towns of the state.
Kavveri Telecom board approves rights issue (HBL)
Telecom products manufacturer Kavveri Telecom on Wednesday said it has received approval from its board for issue of shares worth Rs 30 crore in a rights basis.“The board has approved the issue of equity shares on rights basis with an issue size of not more than Rs 30 crore.
RCom takes a call on the Zoozoo challenge (BS)Reliance Communications (RCom) is borrowing a concept from the Charlie Chaplin classic The Great Dictator. Just as Chaplin dances with a globe in the film, RCom's forthcoming advertising campaign will shows five animated characters dancing with a globe.
Telecom Express, IMImobile Create Mobile Interaction Specialist (EFY)
Telcos' wait for airwaves gets longer (ET)The wait for additional airwaves, key for mobile operators to expand their customer base, has just got longer, with the telecom ministry deciding to make any decision on this only after the upcoming auction of third-generation spectrum.
BSNL to set up six Wi-Max stations in Ganjam, Gajapati (BS)Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has decided to set up six Wi-Max (wireless broadband) stations in its Berhampur telecom district (BTD). The Berhampur telecom district covers the Ganjam and Gajapati districts in south Orissa.
BSNL to outsource customer-care to BPOs (HBL)
To ramp up its customer service capabilities, state-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd is scouting for private call centre units that can operate contact centres for addressing complaints from fixed line and broadband subscribers across the country.
Tata Teleservices ties up with ECI Telecom (EFY)
Tata Teleservices Limited (TTSL) and Israel-based ECI Telecom announced that they have partnered to deliver India's largest fixed-broadband access network supporting speeds of up to 18 Mbps. As part of the frame agreement.
MTS forays into new service areas of West Bengal (EFY)
Sistema Shyam Teleservices Limited (SSTL) has announced the launch of its fifth circle and has expanded the coverage of its service brand MTS to 11 districts of West Bengal. This foray marks the entry of MTS into 250 towns of the state.
Kavveri Telecom board approves rights issue (HBL)
Telecom products manufacturer Kavveri Telecom on Wednesday said it has received approval from its board for issue of shares worth Rs 30 crore in a rights basis.“The board has approved the issue of equity shares on rights basis with an issue size of not more than Rs 30 crore.
RCom takes a call on the Zoozoo challenge (BS)Reliance Communications (RCom) is borrowing a concept from the Charlie Chaplin classic The Great Dictator. Just as Chaplin dances with a globe in the film, RCom's forthcoming advertising campaign will shows five animated characters dancing with a globe.
Telecom Express, IMImobile Create Mobile Interaction Specialist (EFY)
Telecom Express, a provider of interactive services to UK media companies, and IMImobile, a global provider of converged mobile and online technology platforms and managed services, have announced the launch of IMEXmobile.
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