MTNL launches 3G services in Delhi

Live TV, high speed data download and video streaming on mobile phone today became a reality in India, with state owned MTNL launching the next generation 3G technology-based telecom services in Delhi.

The service was inaugurated by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh by receiving a video call from Telecom Minister A Raja, who was also present at the function.

Expressing concern over slow pace of broadband growth, Singh said: "I believe that 3G and Broadband Wireless Access will give a fillip to mobile broadband penetration.

"So far, India's success in extending broadband has not been satisfactory. These services were launched in January 2005 and till now we have managed a very modest penetration. I expect that 3G will become the predominant platform on which we will be able to build and deliver upon India's broadband objectives."

He also said that 3G and wireless broadband would bridge the much needed digital divide between the rural and urban India.

For urban India, 3G and wireless broadband will offer convenience of mobility with the rich multimedia content of the internet. "But it is in rural India that I hope to see them making an invaluable contribution," he added.

MTNL, a service provider in Delhi and Mumbai, would extend the 3G services in Mumbai by the end of next month.

When asked about the tariffs, MTNL Chairman and Managing Director R S P Sinha said that "we are still working on it. But I can assure you that the tariffs would be affordable".