Tring tring! The sound of a mobile phone ringing has become a familiar part of our daily lives, symbolizing how deeply integrated these devices have become in our routines. From communication to entertainment, navigation, and even managing our finances, mobile phones have revolutionized the way we live. But have you ever wondered who made the first mobile call in India? Well, the man was….
On July 31, 1995, India took its first significant step into the mobile phone revolution with the country’s first-ever mobile call. The call was made between two key figures: Jyoti Basu, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, and Sukh Ram, the Union Communication Minister at the time. Using a Nokia handset, this historic moment heralded the beginning of a new era, shaping the future of communication in India.
The successful phone call was made possible through the collaboration between India’s BK Modi and Australia’s Telstra, together forming the Modi Telstra network.
The historic call took place between Kolkata and New Delhi. At that time, mobile phones were considered a luxury, with charges set at Rs 8.4 per minute for both incoming and outgoing calls. If a call was made during peak hours, the cost increased to Rs 16.8 per minute.
Mobile phones have become an integral part of our daily lives, providing convenience, speed, and affordability. This evolution highlights not only advancements in technology but also the widespread accessibility of communication across India.
