(a) whether the number of customers of BSNL mobile services is more and the lines are comparatively less;
(b) if so, whether there is any proposal to expand the network;
(c) if so, the number of new lines proposed to be added; and
(d) the time by when it is likely to be done?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (DR. SHAKEEL AHMAD)
(a) Yes, Sir. The demand for Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) mobile service is in excess of the available capacity.
(b) Yes, Sir.
(c) to (d) BSNL has already ordered equipments for expansion of the network by about 12 million lines. The network roll out is in process and the capacities are likely to be available progressively during 2005.