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Economic Times, Hyderabad, 9th January, 2004
Net4India set to launch Broadband in major cities
With broadband expected to take off in a big way in 2004, Net4India is geared up to launch its broadband service on a nationwide platform. On a test-basis, broadband services have been launched seven weeks ago in six metros and are being extended to 10 cities this year.
With broadband access already available in Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai, Net4India is foraying into the space with its 'triple play strategy' of converging voice, video and data into a single pipeline. Speaking to ET, Net4India's CEO Jasjit Sawhney said that the targetted market segment for the new services would be the SME sector in major cities. Already, more than 5000 customers have signed up for its broadband services in the three cities.
According to Mr. Sawhney, Net4India's broadband services will be provided in at least 10 cities by the end of 2004. Much of the penetration would happen through the process of partnering with cable operators to provide the last mile connectivity.
"We have recognised that the Indian market is prepared to receive broadband at its doorstep. The efforts of the government in stepping up broadband penetration will help push the growth of our services this year," Mr. Sawhney said.
The company's service Net4Broadband, is an always on internet access for small and medium corporates that are looking for cheaper and faster internet services.
The company's services range from Rs. 750 per month for home and small office users to Rs. 2000 per month for corporates with a downloadbale access of 30 GB.
To achieve last mile connectivity, Net4India is talking to major cable operators in different cities who could serve customers. According to Mr. Sawhney, plans are on the anvil to partner with a minimum of 250 last mile operators in 10 cities who will in turn serve an average 150 users each.
On the investment front, major expendeture will be in terms of bandwidth procurement, which will happen in a scaled manner as the company adds last mile partners, the official said.
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