25/04/2016

Is it true that BSNL is going to provide 20 GB 3G internet service for Rs.50?

BSNL, India’s biggest telecommunication company, made headlines when news surfaced that it is going to introduce 20 GB 3G internet service for as low as Rs.50.
For the past two days, this has been one of the hottest topics of discussion and much searched-for phrase on the internet.
So, how true is this news?
Despite our best efforts, there is no clarity on this issue. There has been no circular or advertisement either from the government or from the BSNL regarding this.
It is not just the internet, but the social media too that is discussing this news. Here is a summary of the news item:
    “In order to provide superfast browsing experience to smartphone users, telecom service providers are now providing 3G and 4G internet services. Meanwhile, news has surfaced that BSNL is planning to offer 20 GB 3G internet for as low as Rs.50. BSNL is going to provide the 3g services at such rock-bottom prices as part of the Prime Minister’s Digital India initiative to make the internet accessible to all. The scheme will be launched with government subsidiary. The service can be used by just one person or be shared among four.
    In the rural areas, one person in the family can obtain this service and share it with four others. According to information, the BSNL Allahabad General Manager, Ram Shubh Yadav had announced that those interested in availing this service should register themselves at the BSNL Selfcare website. The announcement or the news has not yet been confirmed or verified by the BSNL authorities.
    Currently, leading mobile telecom companies charge anything between Rs.160 to Rs.250 per GB of 3G internet. If BSNL provides 20 times the GB in less than one-fourth the cost, it will tremendously increase the company’s user base. At the same time, it also raises questions if such a move will be valid according to TRAI regulations.”