BSNL launches VVoIP services over internet

State-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) yesterday announced the launch of its voice and video telephony services (VVoIP) over the internet.

''To start with, video communication is highly affordable compared to conventional video conferencing services. We are also making special arrangements with leading international carriers to ensure that consumers always reach their international destinations easily and at the most affordable rates,'' said BSNL CMD, Rakesh Kumar Upadhyay.

BSNL is initially offering this service at Ahmedabad and by the end of this month the services will be available elsewhere in Gujarat. It will eventually be offered in Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh.

The VVoIP service will allow its users to make audio as well as video calls to any landline, mobile, or IP phone anywhere in the world, as long as the required video phone equipment is available at both ends.

The VVoIP service will cost 40 paise per minute for audio and Rs2 per minute for video calls within the country, while international calls to countries such as the US or UK will cost Rs1.20 per minute on landline and Rs7.20 on mobile.

Users can register for this service by paying Rs100, where Rs50 will cover the charge to provide static IP to customers.
 
"This mode of communication is highly affordable compared to conventional video conferencing services. It will drastically reduce the cost of communication and enhance the quality of today's communication," said Upadhyay.