Date:08/03/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/03/08/stories/2005030801691700.htm

Back Idea Cellular launches Buddy Recharge scheme

Our Bureau

Hyderabad , March 7

IDEA Cellular Ltd has announced the launch of Buddy Recharge scheme for its pre-paid customers, which allows its Chitchat users to recharge their friends and family numbers from their own account.

This service is particularly targeted at the youth but is expected to benefit all categories of users. An Idea customer has to select his group of friends and family users, within the same operating circle and create a buddy list. The Buddy Recharge is then ready to use, starting from Rs 55 to Rs 300 and there is no additional service.

The Chief Executive Officer of Idea, Mr Vikram Mehmi, in statement said "Buddy recharge is an innovative facility offered for the first time in the country. We see this as another step towards making our stronger prepaid offering the best in the industry and help in penetrating the pre paid market further."

Buddy Recharge can be done anytime, anywhere, even in the absence of a bank or a retailer to top-up or physical cash vouchers, or even while roaming. When the amount is transferred to a Buddy, the receiver, the buddy does not have to pay service tax. An Idea customer will have to register by sending an SMS to 147 and get a PIN.