(a) whether the difficulties are being faced in the rural areas to get connection and to get PCO connection at Panchayat level;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor and the corrective measures taken in this regard;
(c) whether telephone sets being given with the new connection are of sub-standard and poor quality;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the action taken/being taken by the Government in this regard?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
(DR. SHAKEEL AHMAD)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) Non-availability of cable pairs and non/poor availability of WLL signals in remote areas are the main reasons.
The measures such as laying of underground cables, erection of overhead lines and installation of BTSs etc. are being taken to
provide telephone connections and PCOs in rural areas.
(c) No, Sir.
(d) & (e) Do not arise in view of (c) above.