Independence Day offer: BSNL offers free unlimited calls

New Delhi: Customers of state-run BSNL will be able to make free unlimited calls on any network on Independence Day, August 15. "BSNL...customers will be able to make unlimited free voice calling from BSNL landline to any network mobile and landline in the country on August 15, and thereafter every Sunday," Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha said in a statement. At present, it offers unlimited night calling on any network in the country between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. as complimentary service for all its customers. BSNL commands around 57 per cent market share with 14.35 million customers. "This service will be available for all BSNL landline customers besides existing free calling scheme during night. For new customers we are now providing fixed line connection for monthly rental starting Rs 49 for first six months and thereafter consumer can shift plan of his/her choice. The lowest monthly rental is Rs 99," BSNL CMD Anupam Shrivastava said. The free calling service is available for all BSNL customers without any charge. "These new schemes will let people experience modern facilities that are now available on BSNL landline network like call forward to mobile phones etc," Mr Shrivastava said. BSNL free calling scheme aims at encouraging people use landline phone when they are at home and save on mobile phone bills, a BSNL official said. "The fixed line phones will be instrumental in proliferation of good quality broadband service which is an essential element of Digital India. BSNL free calling scheme will pave way for expansion of broadband services in the country as well through fixed line connection," the official said.