Bangalore: AirTel cellular service provider on July 18 opened up the world of mobile telephony and modern-day communication to the acoustically challenged sections of society.

AirTel on July 18 launched a plan exclusively for the acoustically challenged, wherein they can use mobile handsets to communicate solely through Short Message Service (SMS) for a monthly fee of Rs 99. The connections are customized to truly suit the necessity of the impaired, and therefore the service is not voice enabled.

For these special customers, AirTel has launched a non-voice based customer care service, wherein their queries and needs will be addressed through SMS.

Speaking at the launch, Jagdish Kini, chief executive officer (CEO)-South Central region, Bharti Mobile Limited said, "AirTel today enjoys its position of leadership as we have taken care to understand the different needs of customers. We are sure that 'AirTel Confidence' will add value to the lives of those who have not been able to experience the joys of voice communication, and to provide the scope for them too, to live… every moment."

Kini launched 'Airtel Confidence' on July 18 at a function where 10 such connections under the scheme were gifted without the activation fee of Rs 400.

Plan details:

Bill plan charge – Rs 99 per month SMS – free and unlimited One time activation fee – Rs 400 Local deposit of Rs 1,000 – waived

The special scheme can be availed only at the AirTel lobby on Nandidurga road, wherein the customer will have to get the proof of eligibility to avail the services. Upcountry customers also can avail of this service by writing in to the AirTel lobby on Nandidurga road and the AirTel representatives will meet the applicant before he is given the connection.

Under the scheme, all SMSs to any GSM phone anywhere in India would be free. In addition to this, AirTel will offer international SMS at Rs three per outgoing SMS, and access to value added services through SMS at Rs two per outgoing message.