The role of technology in telecom expansion in India

It is not viable to expand the telecom network in India substantially at the prevalent level of per-line investment. However, systems based on new technologies, many developed in India, promise to more than halve the investment required. This article looks at the telecom scenario, the new technologies, the Indian products based on these technologies, and the cost reductions they promise. The provision of widespread Internet service with low access tariff is an important aspect of the new approach.