How was the networks market last year?
The network market moved on nicely. The numbers are an indication of how the industry has picked up. Regulatory moves were also positive. Operators looked in multi-directions in both urban and rural areas. There were lots of requirements and demands from the market. For Nokia, there was lot of success.

What do you think about the network management outsourcing businss?
Bharti is the only company to have outsourced its network and network management to a network vendor. Though other operators have shown interest, there has been no deal in the offing. It takes time for the management to understand the nature and implications of outsourcing a network. It is a strategic decision and long-term commitment by both parties is required. And, the operators are justified in taking time to arrive at a decision. But finally, it is they who would take the  decision to outsource or not.

Does the BSNL contract, which Nokia bagged last year, include GRPS/EDGE for the networks too? How has been the deployment of these technologies in India?
For most of the private operators, the network are GPRS or EDGE enabled. The full network might not have both these operational, but some parts of the network have GRPS or EDGE. Now BSNL is also looking at this in a big way. In fact, EDGE and 3G equipment were part of the BSNL RFP.

When do you see 3G being deployed in India?
The Indian operators are showing a lot of interest in 3G. There is no doubt that 3G is a spectrum-efficient technology and has been taking off globally after the initial hiccups. The 3G networks are not only good for data downloads, as far as the common perception goes, but they are also good for voice services. Lot of applications like tele-medicine and e-governance can be developed on 3G networks. Deploying 3G can also enable broadband services in new areas. In India, spectrum is an issue in 3G deployment though there is lot of momentum in the market. Operators are also busy with their 2.5G networks. But even after all this, judging by the trials and pilots, they would arrive on time. The next tender from MTNL would include 3G.

The plans and positioning of the operators would determine the demand for 3G services. Actual deployment is still some time away. Initial deployments would happen in pockets and not as blanket coverage.

Is Nokia planning to further expand its operations in India?
We have been expanding our operations in India. We have been increasing our manpower. Though our focus has been to achieve our targets, we go beyond that to make satisfied customers and earn respect. The Nokia brand and our value system accompanied by a good renewal system and training does not make it difficult to attract good people.

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