C-DOT, Alcatel to set up R&D venture

April 01, 2005

French telecom major Alcatel has joined hands in an agreement with Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT) to set up a global research and development centre in India for broadband wireless products.

The joint venture facility, to be established in Chennai, will employ 1,000 people and initially work on WiMax technology.

Alcatel has also decided to manufacture telecom equipment for GSM-based cellular network with the Indian Telephone Industries (ITI).

“Alcatel believes that broadband wireless and particularly WiMax is appropriate technology for India keeping in mind the requirements of the rural sector,” said Ravi Sharma, president, Alcatel (South Asia). “Coupled with engineering competence, India becomes a natural choice for setting up such a research centre,” said Mr Sharma.

The R&D facility will cater to not only the Indian market but also to Alcatel's global network.

"The first R&D project to be implemented jointly will be related to WiMax technology. We will expand the portfolio to other wireless broadband technology," said Etienne Fouques, President, Mobile Communications Group, Alcatel.

C-DOT, a brain child of Sam Pitroda, was responsible for ushering in telecom revolution in India.