BSNL launches 3G mobile services in Aizawl

AIZAWL, DEC 19 (AGENCIES):
State-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) today launched its third-generation (3G) mobile services in Aizawl, offering a plethora of services like live TV, high-speed mobile broadband and movie download facilities.
Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla marked the launch at a formal function here by making a video-call to Gopal Das, Director (HR) BSNL Board, New Delhi. Mr Thanhawla lauded the BSNL for being the world's seventh largest telecommunications company and for launching such high-technology services in one of the remotest parts of India. He also urged the company to expand and improve its network to cover the entire state and to ensure undisturbed network even in times of monsoon related disasters like landslides.
The Chief Minister expressed hope that the 3G mobile service would prove to be helpful for video conferencing and telemedicine facilities, reported UNI.
However, he was worried by the huge amount of money Mizoram was spending on mobile phones. ''It is estimated that there are three to four lakhs mobile phone customers in Mizoram and they spend an estimated total amount Rs ten crore monthly for mobile phone bills. This is a whooping figure for a small state like Mizoram. This 3G service is likely to cost us more,'' he stated. He also emphasised the need to check cyber crimes, which has increased along with the advancement in information technology.
The BSNL had launched the 3G mobile services nation-wide earlier in February this year.
BSNL official Gopal Das described the 3G launch as an historic event for the company. The 3G mobile service enables a range of upgraded services, including rich voice, data and video services and high speed internet, to the subscribers. 3G makes possible video streaming applications such as live TV, movie downloads, high speed data download on mobile phones with 3G services enabled. Callers can also see each other on their mobile phone screens.
It will be launched in Lunglei, Champhai and Kolasib districts of Mizoram shortly, Mr Das said.