No Roaming charges from 2013
/ 0
- National News
- Monday, 24 September 2012 16:33
- Published on Monday, 24 September 2012 18:33
- Hits: 1580
Gujarat Global News Network, New Delhi
From January 2013, mobile users across the country will be able to use their cell phones anywhere in the country without having to pay roaming charges. The announcement was made by Telecom Minister Kapil Sibal today.
The removal of roaming charges was one of the key proposals of the National Telecom Policy 2012. The NTP 2012, approved by the cabinet in May, aims to abolish roaming charges and allow mobile phone subscribers to use same number across country without having to pay extra charges for services once they are outside their telecom circle.
GSM industry body COAI Director General Rajan S Mathews said he appreciated the concept of free roaming, but added that industry will have to work on details of implementation of 'One Nation - Free Roaming'.
When asked about the impact on mobile phone call rates, Mathews said, "That is matter which we will have to work with Trai (telecom regulator). Trai is ultimately responsible for setting the tariffs...We hope that Trai will follow due process of consultation paper."
According to industry pundits, telecom operators get around 6-7 percent of revenues from roaming charges. The elimination of these charges may push up the call tariffs.
For News in Hindi, see our Hindi daily Chaupal ChronicleÂ
