Another Operator Opens Service in Northern India

India's Idea Cellular has announced the launch of its services in Himachal Pradesh. Idea is the 6th operator to launch in the region. Idea's network will cover key towns and highways in 2 phases. In the current 1st phase, services are available in Shimla, Mandi, Solan Baddi, Kullu, and Sundernagar. In Phase 2, Services will be available in 8 more important towns, which are Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Manali, Kufri, Chail, Kasauli, Parwanoo and Nalagarh.

Announcing the launch of services in HP, Mr. Vikram Mehmi, President & CEO, Idea Cellular said, "Across India, Idea has played a key role by connecting people to people and people to places. Idea offers a unique service experience and world-class customer care, everywhere it goes. Himachal Pradesh has a huge potential for growth and Idea aims to become a positive catalyst for development. The launch of Idea will further boost the telecom infrastructure in the region and hence facilitate overall growth & development".

While launching this service, Governor Shri V.S. Kokje said that Mobile Connectivity is a valuable service in a State like Himachal Pradesh where mobility and connectivity is less than other States due to its geographic conditions. He hoped that Idea Cellular Service would bring in the latest technology and other value added services to its customers alongwith affordable tariffs which would help the people of Himachal Pradesh to stay connected.

The Himachali economy is mainly dependent on tourism and apples. There are also some natural minerals in the state. There are two large cement factories catering not only to the people of Himachal but also selling in other states.

Moreover, Himachal has got significant service class and is one of highest per capita income states in India.

Himachal is being mooted as a possible host for the 2010 Commonwealth Winter Games."

Posted to the site on 11th September 2006