|
...and mulls strategic alliances for Internet via satellite
Sudipto Dey
New Delhi, May 4: VSAT service provider HCL Comnet Systems & Services plans to enter into strategic alliances with cable operators to offer Internet through satellite. Also in the offing is a roll-out of ISP services in category B and C cities from June onwards. Plans are also afoot to hive-off the ISP and cable-related business into a seperate company at a later date, senior officials said. HCL Comnet executive vice-president Sanjeev Nikore told The Financial Express that the strategic alliance may involve assisting cable operators to modernise their operations. He said the company would soon initiate talks in this regard with independent cable operators and multiservice operators. Nikore said the company is yet to take a decision on whether to enter into any equity partnership with cable operators. Nikore said HCL would be open to the idea of hiving off the ISP business. "However, this would depend on the business volume and market response we are able to generate," he added.For its ISP service, the company has taken a different route compared to others, officials said. HCL Comnet plans to target the smaller towns and cities with the service over the next few months.To start with, tie-ups with cyber cafes for online services is in the offing. HCL Comnet has recently bagged Category A ISP licence. Copyright © 2000 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.
|