Kicks off its network transformation drive “Project Leap” in the state

• Marks the biggest network deployment in the history of the state

• Aims to double its wireless broadband service over the next 3 years

• To strengthen Jharkhand’s internet backbone by adding 1,500 kms of fibre across the state by year 2018

Ranchi, December 16th, 2015: Bharti Airtel Limited (“Airtel”), Jharkhand’s leading telecom services provider, today announced the commencement of its network transformation program “Project Leap” in Jharkhand. As part of this, Airtel will double its network investments in the state over the course of the next three years – thus delivering an enhanced voice as well as data experience for customers. This marks the largest deployment of network infrastructure in the history of the state and is set to become one of the biggest investments made by a private sector company in Jharkhand.

Commenting on the occasion, U. Bharath, CEO - Bihar & Jharkhand, Bharti Airtel said ,

“As the telecom market leader in Jharkhand, it is our constant endeavor at Airtel to consistently innovate and make investments that help us move closer to our vision of delivering a seamless network experience for our customers. In the last 3 years, we have invested Rs. 400 crore in the state which is a testimony of this commitment and we are excited to commence the implementation of this mega project in Jharkhand by doubling our network investments”.

Airtel's “Project Leap” marks the largest deployment of network infrastructure in the history of Jharkhand. Since 2012, Airtel Jharkhand has added 2,200 sites and over 1,500 kms of high speed fiber optical cable – thus benefiting more than 10 million customers across 7,000 additional villages. With 3G, Airtel plans to double its wireless broadband connectivity and extend its reach to 60% of the population in Jharkhand in the next three years. An additional 1,500 kms of fibre will also be deployed towards strengthening the state’s internet backbone.

“Our investments in Jharkhand will largely be towards upgrading and modernizing our network infrastructure, expanding mobile broadband to rural areas and laying of the optical fiber. With “Project Leap”, we look forward to delivering the best experience for our customers now and for years to come”, added Bharath .