Teletalk gives out free SIMs to promote female internet users

The state run mobile operator Teletalk has started distributing “Oparajita” SIM cars among female users, aiming to encourage the use of phone and ensure gender equality in accessing the internet. State Minister for Post and Telecommunication Tarana Halim launched SIM distribution programme on Sunday. Tarana said: “We will distribute two million SIM cards free of cost. The cards will have Tk10 preloaded balance in them. “The distribution has started across Bangladesh today and the female customers can collect them from retailers and service centres.” The minister added saying that the users will receive special call rates and internet services. She said: “We will try to increase the number women participation on internet. This will help us overcome the challenge of gender inequality and reach the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG).” “Oparajita” users will also get 1GB internet along with 10 minute on-net and five minute off-net calling. Once activated, the offer can be used for seven days. The users will receive 1GB worth of internet data after recharging only Tk8 while they can avail 2GB internet at Tk14 with a validity of a week. They will also get 30 paisa per minute call rate for on-net calling and 60 paisa per minute call rate on off-net calling, on recharging Tk29. Besides, previous Teletalk users can also migrate to “Oparajita” and access its offers for three months, once activated.