BSNL to offer prepaid coupons for broadband

Telecom firm Bharat Sanchar Nagam Limited plans to introduce prepaid coupons for its broadband internet services. The coupons would be similar to the ones used in prepaid mobile phones.

"We are planning to launch the prepaid broadband coupons by the end of this month or early November. Trials are already underway in Bangalore," a senior BSNL official told Business Standard.

In the prepaid system, prices would be a little higher, the official said. However, he did not give more details about the pricing structure.

BSNL would be the first company to introduce a prepaid system for broadband services. Under the new system, customers would be able to use the broadband service through their account from any BSNL phone across the country, provided they are carrying their own modem and have a valid prepaid coupon.

The modem would come at a cost of Rs 1,000-1,600. Customers can buy the modem either by making a onetime payment or by paying monthly rentals of Rs 50-80.