Tata Tele opts for 1 minute pulse

Tata Tele-Services Ltd (TTSL), the leading CDMA cellular service provider, has decided to switch its billing from per second pulse to per minute pulse and devise a differential tariff plan for calls made within its own network.

Despite Department of Telecommunications (DoT) contemplating banning cellular operators from offering lower rates for calls made within its network, the company said it would go ahead with the new plan, scheduled to be launched this month.

"Yes, we are moving ahead with our launch plans to offer cheaper rates for Tata Indicom mobile users. If DoT comes out with a directive, then we will withdraw it," TTSL COO Rajesh Puri told.

He said the company, in its new plan, would effect per minute pulse rate from per second pulse "for easy benchmarking of our lower tariff against that offered by the competitors."

The post-paid mobiles are already in the minute pulse billing system.

The company is also launching two new pre-paid cards of the Rs 180 and Rs 550 (including service tax) in place of the previous minimum of Rs 330.