Vodafone India slashes 2G data prices by 80 percent

In a significant move, Vodafone India Wednesday said it has reduced data charges by up to 80 percent in three circles and the new cheaper rates will be rolled out nationally in a phased manner.

The telecom operator has reduced the price from 10 paisa per 10 KB to 2 paisa per 10KB for Karnataka, UP West and Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh circles.

"The rate cut from 10p/10KB to 2p/10KB will make Internet access affordable for customers who use mobile Internet in a limited way," Vodafone said in a statement.

The company said this rate would be applicable for all pre-paid and post-paid customers using 2G network on a Pay as you Go basis in these circles.

"These rates are currently applicable in Karnataka, UP West and Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh circles and will be rolled out nationally in a phased manner," Vodafone said.

As part of its strategy to "democratise" data, Vodafone is educating current and potential users about how Internet can add significant value to them.

The company is also building content partnerships, simplifying pricing, educating retailers and offering choice to customer basis their interests and consumption patterns.

"We, at Vodafone, want to accelerate mobile Internet adoption this 80 percent reduction in data charges for customers using 2G network is an important step in this direction," Vodafone India Chief Commercial Officer Vivek Mathur said.