The Dawn of Telecommunications in India: From the First Mobile Call to Landline Invention

The history of telecommunications in India is a fascinating journey from the introduction of the first telephone to the launch of the first mobile phone and beyond. This article explores key milestones in Indian telecommunications, highlighting the first mobile call and the development of landline technology.

Early Landline Telecommunications in India

The first telephone exchange in India was established in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1882. This marked the beginning of a revolutionary period in communication. The first telephone service in the country was launched on February 15, 1883, paving the way for modern telecommunications in India.

The First Handset in India

Early attempts at mobile telephony in India were through landline services. However, the true advent of mobile communication is best captured by the first mobile call made in India. The first mobile call was made on July 31, 1995 by the then West Bengal Chief Minister Jyoti Basu to the Union Communications Minister Sukh Ram. This historic call was made using the Nokia mobile handset, which was a landmark moment for telecommunication in the country.

The Motorola StarTAC: The First Mobile Phone in India

While the Nokia mobile was the first to make a call in India, the Motorola StarTAC was the first mobile phone launched in the country. This iconic flip phone was released in August 1996 by Motorola India Electronics, under the partnership with Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL). The Motorola StarTAC was a game-changer, featuring a clamshell design and a high price tag of around Rs. 150,000. Initially available only to select business and government customers, it set the stage for the widespread adoption of mobile phones in India.

Principles Underpinning Telecommunications

The development of telecommunications in India is closely linked to the work of inventors like Graham Bell. Graham Bell, an American inventor, is credited with developing the first practical telephone, which led to the subsequent advancements in telecommunication technology. His invention paved the way for global communication and continues to lay the foundation for modern telecommunications.

Early Stages of Mobile Telephony

The early stages of mobile telephony in India faced several challenges, including high costs and limited availability. A mobile handset in the late 1990s cost around Rs. 45,000, with calling rates of Rs. 17 per minute. Despite these challenges, the launch of the Motorola StarTAC and the subsequent proliferation of mobile phones made communication more accessible and convenient for Indian consumers.