IDEA Cellular, India’s third largest mobile operator has expanded its 3G Mobile and Data services to 4 more towns - Dharamshala, Mcleodganj, Mandi and Sunder Nagar – in addition to Shimla and Baddi in Himachal Pradesh circle.
Idea launched 3G services on its network in Himachal Pradesh, starting with the 2 major towns, Shimla and Baddi, in March ’11 end. Idea has received an overwhelming response since 3G services were introduced in the state.
Idea’s national 3G footprint now covers over 400 towns and is progressively growing at the rate of 10 towns per day to cover 750 towns by mid 2011, and 4,000 towns by the end of FY12. Idea has traditionally focused on growth from semi-urban heartlands of India and will continue to drive its 3G services from these industrial, agricultural and educational regions.
Idea’s 3G services are now available in 9 circles - MP, Gujarat, HP, UP West, UP East, AP, Kerala, Haryana and Maharashtra & Goa. Currently, 10% of Idea subscribers in these markets are said to be using 3G enabled handsets. It is expected that these users will be the early adopters of 3G services.