India Broadband Forum

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Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is mulling the idea of introducing �95� group dialling service nationwide which will allow its users to make long-distance calls across the country.

BSNL recently launched the OneIndia plan that offers its users a flat tariff of Rs 1 in the fixed line phones for all STD calls in the country.

Tariff wise, the new service will not have much effect, but users will not require an STD connection unlike the OneIndia Plan to make long-distance calls.

�The service is technically possible any time and the operator is considering the idea,� sources said.

The service, however, needed to get the nod from the DoT sources added. It may be noted that questions have been raised about MTNL for its �95� group dialling service between Delhi and Mumbai. The present licence regulations restricts �95� dialling service up to 200 kms.

The idea was apparently mooted when OneIndia plan was launched but couple of issues blocked its progress.

The operator needs to ensure that the service does not affect its rural tariff of 80 paise for 3 minutes, it may also affect the Access Deficit Cut (ADC) of BSNL.

Industry watchers reckon that if the service does rolls out, it could lead to a new mobile tariff battle. Private operators have various plans that offer STD calls at Rs 1 or subsidised rates under various schemes or through a payment of a fixed rate, BSNL's roll out is likely to have a major impact.

Reliance recently launched Hello Capital plan which offers STD calls at Rs 1.20 for 3 minutes in various cities.