Question : INTRODUCTION OF CONVERGENCE TECHNOLOGY

(a) the details of convergence of web and other value added services, being introduced in the country, through new mobile handsets alongwith the impact thereof on the subscribers mainly for voice transactions;

(b) whether the Government proposes to take suitable steps to safeguard the interests of commonman, especially in rural areas and regulate the induction of new technology to protect mobile consumers and ensure lower rental rates and call charges offered by the service providers to finance the convergence technology; and

(c) if so, the details thereof;

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) Convergence of data, voice and multimedia is a result of continuous technological upgradation & innovations. The various features are added by service providers, solution providers, equipment vendors and content developers to meet the subscriber’s perceptions and expectations. Voice, data & multimedia are three different applications and subscriber is free to choose any service according to his requirement. Therefore, there is no established transactions.

(b) & (c) Various technology options and tariff plans are available to suit various segment of subscribers. Government encourages introduction of new technologies and services across the country including rural areas. There is no proposal to regulate induction of new technology. The introduction of new technology and services offers voice along with rich value added services which propels the growth and is making mobile handsets more affordable and within reach of common man.