Mobile Phones in India to cost more from April 1. As Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee announced 1% percent hike in the Central Excise duty for 130 items, including mobile phones. Currently central excise duty is 4% and will increase to 5% after April 1.
"The increase in central excise duty is detrimental as it will make mobile phones more expensive and provide impetus to the grey/un-branded market" Nokia India VP and MD D Shivakumar said.
"The Budget 2011 covered too little on telecom, while this is one of the fastest growing sectors. (There were) no significant steps on the spectrum related issues," said the company Program Manager(ICT Practice - South Asia and Middle East) Parminder Kaur Saini.
"The extension of special additional duty on components for mobile phones for another year is a welcome step. This will help mobile manufacturers sustain growth," Samsung India Electronics Mobile and IT Country Head Ranjit Yadav said. "The budget provides stimulus for rural and inclusive growth. We welcome the government's commitment to reducing the digital divide by ensuring rural broadband connectivity in 2 years to all 2.5 lakh panchayats," he said.
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Mobile Phones India