With the availability of 3G spectrum, about 275 million Indian subscribers will use 3G-enabled services, and the number of 3G-enabled handsets will reach close to 395 million by 2013-end, estimates the latest report by Evalueserve, a provider of Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) services.
Although the Centre has allotted two state-owned operators — Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) for the roll out of 3G services in over 12 Indian cities, the technology will gather steam only when private telecom operators are also allotted 3G spectrum, says the report.
The growth in the 3G subscriber base is expected to be driven primarily by the adoption of the service by the urban (above poverty line) customer segment. This segment is expected to be the fastest adopter of the new technology.