"Looking at the last quarter reports (Oct - Dec 2008), mobile companies added a good number of new customers. This indicates that the market is there to boom with new mobile phones springing up at large."

On the current scenario of the market for mobile phones

The mobile industry is witnessing a stupendous growth on both fronts - metros and major towns, as well as from new markets in Circle C and Circle B states. The effect of the slowdown has been different on different segments but the mobile segment is not much affected. Despite the sluggish economy, the mobile market in India has witnessed a robust growth. The recent growth of the mobile market is driven by an increased focus on the rural segment. Opportunities are splurging with mobile manufacturers coming up with very low cost handsets and also focusing on high-end accessories, which have become the hot selling product in the market. Mobile communication has seen growth in the field of infotainment, new technology and is now looking forward to experience the third generation technology-3G. So I would not be wrong in stating such innovations and technology upgraded handsets will be the main growth drivers of mobile industry in India.

On the growth drivers of the Indian mobile phones market

The Indian mobile phone market will witness a robust growth in terms of increasing coverage of network, more handsets based upon varied user needs. For the Indian market, lower airtime tariffs and increased retail penetration will continue to be the primary drivers for mobile handset growth. Adding to it, will be the latest innovations in technology, unique contemporary features in the handsets, increased use of mobile phones for infotainment, and the 3G technology.

On India gearing up for 3G mobile services; on the delay of the auction process

The government's move toward the opening of the 3G spectrum was a very encouraging step for the sector. Commercial launch of services by MTNL and testing by BSNL across various locations is a way forward in taking this leap. We are positive that this will ramp up the sector and take it a long way.

On technology, and price trends in the mobile phone market in India

The mobile phone market in India is at its peak right now. With the growing acceptance of mobiles amongst consumers which has become a necessity than a luxury, the market has abundant growth opportunity for various players. This has lead to the availability of the latest technologies from across the globe and the most contemporary features in the handsets. The market also caters to every segment of society in terms of pricing with the availability of models starting from a very low range to the premium brackets and the consumer is spoilt for choice. The focus is on bringing mobile phones that can meet up with consumer requirements at every level.

On the effect of the continued economic slowdown on the mobile phones market

Though a slight decline in the growth of mobile phones has been witnessed, the economic slowdown is not likely to have any major impact on the mobile phone market. Looking at the last quarter reports (Oct - Dec 2008), mobile companies added a good number of new customers. This indicates that the market is here to boom with new mobile phones springing up at large.