Singh is King', it is now official.
Without taking much time after RSP Sinha's resignation, the Department of
Telecommunications has handed over MTNL's reins to Kuldip Singh, who has been
serving as director (technical). The chances for Singh's appointment were high
since Sinha put in his papers.
Experts were hoping to see either of the directors-Kuldip
Singh (technical) and Anita Soni (finance) to take up the role. Singh surfaced
as the most suitable person for the chair as the authorities would prefer a
technocrat. Though Sinha himself had served as director (finance) prior to the
role of CMD, he was a known technocrat in the industry.
VOICE&DATA spoke to Kuldip Singh to find out his preparations
for the next three months. Singh says that he is confident of braving new
challenges that the new responsibility as CMD of an ailing PSU entails. He adds
that his immediate focus would be on flawless delivery of the prestigious
Commonwealth Games.
MTNL is the official telecom service provider for the
Commonwealth Games to be held in Delhi this year, and elaborate preparations
have to be made for the same. "In terms of technology, MTNL has been ahead of
others and we would continue to do that. The Commonwealth Games is a challenging
project, and also a great opportunity for MTNL to reaffirm its technological
strength," he says.
Acknowledging that the period of three months may not be
sufficient to bring a remarkable improvement in the balance sheets of the
company that has been facing severe pressure in the financial aspect, Singh says
that he will put in sincere efforts to put things in motion which will
definitely show good results.
MTNL had declared 80% decline in the net profit for Q2 ended
September 2009, and stood at Rs 20.58 crore as compared to Rs 91.49 crore in the
same period in 2008.
Known for enjoying a low profile, Singh is admired in the
industry for his strong technological edge and impeccable office record. "It
will be too early for me to talk about any targets for myself. We will work hard
to give pace to pending things," he says.
Singh says that he is committed to keep MTNL ready for the
mobile number portability. "I am unable to understand why media focused only on
PSUs' unpreparedness for MNP, while private ones were also not ready."
Singh would continue to hold the portfolio of director
(technical). An engineering graduate and masters in business administration,
Singh has over thirty-five years of experience in telecommunications. Singh was
promoted from GM, switching and planning to director (technical) in December
2004. Before joining DoT, he worked in various capacities in Overseas
Communication Service (now VSNL).
It will be a gripping show to watch Singh take MTNL forward.
Will he pass the litmus test? May be.
Heena Jhingan
heenaj@cybermedia.co.in
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