Airtel launches India’s first 4G service

Bharti Airtel on Tuesday announced that it has launched fourth generation mobile services in Kolkata and claimed that this initiative had also resulted in India becoming one of the first countries in the world to commercially deploy this cutting-edge technology.

Airtel's 4G (TD-LTE) network was launched by telecom minister Kapil Sibal.

The launch will trigger a new phase of accelerated equitable and inclusive economic growth through proliferation of broadband services as envisioned by the draft National Telecom Policy, the company said.

"Today's launch is a major milestone for India and Airtel. Over the past 15 years Airtel has been at the forefront of India's telecom revolution and has set the technology trends in India by aligning with the global standards. We are delighted to now provide leadership in setting the technology standard for 4G services in India by introducing the cutting edge TD-LTE," Bharti Airtel chairman Sunil Mittal said..

We are confident that others will follow in this direction and participate in our pioneering effort of making TD-LTE the defacto 4G standard in India. I would like to thank all our stakeholders in helping us fulfill the Government's vision of Broadband on Demand, outlined by the Hon'ble Telecom Minister. I would also like to thank the Government of West Bengal for their support and cooperation that has made this launch possible and once again reiterate our commitment to participate in the development of the state," Mittal said.

"High speed wireless broadband has the potential to transform India, provide a robust platform for building the country's digital economy and truly empower people. With one of the largest pools of young population in the world, India will see massive growth in consumption of data and content over mobile devices and proliferation of mobile commerce. I look forward to Airtel playing a pivotal role in shaping this exciting future for India," Mittal added.

In 2010, Airtel had successfully bid for BWA license spectrum in Kolkata, Karnataka, Punjab and Maharashtra (excluding Mumbai) circles. It is currently working towards rolling out state-of-the-art networks in circles other than Kolkata.