Long distance rates are likely to see massive reduction with telecom PSU BSNL all set to announce fresh rates under the uniform STD tariffs -- IndiaOne -- where a reduction of 70 per cent is likely to take place for basic telephony segment.
The IndiaOne Uniform STD rates which are likely to be announced by January 15 will come before the announcement of revenue-share based access deficit charge and will set in motion the PSUs' tariffs aligning themselves to this grand initiative of Telecom Minister Dayanidhi Maran who sees a single rate for STD across the country as the way to bring affordability in this segment.
This will put rest to speculation on delay in launching IndiaOne tariffs by telecom PSUs.
Sources in BSNL said OneIndia rates should see enough reduction in mobile STD also.
At present, BSNL call charges for distance beyond 50 kms is Rs 2.40 for a 30 second pulse rate effectively making Rs 4.80 for a minute inter-circle (STD) call for its basic telephone users. Intra-circle rate below 50 km is also charged at Rs 2.40 but for a 90 seconds pulse.
For cellular users of BSNL, under various Plans there are different STD rates for a 60 second pulse. Under Plan 225, the cell-to-cell STD rates are Rs 2 a minute for a 60 second pulse while under Plan 325 and Plan 525, it is Rs 1.80 for the pulse for same duration.
{{/usCountry}}For cellular users of BSNL, under various Plans there are different STD rates for a 60 second pulse. Under Plan 225, the cell-to-cell STD rates are Rs 2 a minute for a 60 second pulse while under Plan 325 and Plan 525, it is Rs 1.80 for the pulse for same duration.
{{/usCountry}}Officials also said rentals were to remain at the same level and there is no change on rental as well as on local call fronts.