Sun Direct TV inks deal with IBM

Chennai-based Sun Direct TV, part of the Sun TV Group, has inked agreement with IBM to employ and manage Customer Relationship Management (CRM) related applications for Sun Direct TV.

Being the multi-year deal, it comprises end-to-end services ranging from strategy through implementation, and displaces Sun Microsystems, the incumbent provider.

Launched in December 2007, Sun Direct TV presently has a base of 3 million subscribers. The company expects to expand its customer base to 10 million by 2010 with implementation of this CRM platform.

The CRM platform will help Sun Direct TV to tackle key issues surrounding billing, customer relationship management and develop ways to get better insights on customer behaviour. IBM will develop and maintain a dynamic infrastructure for Sun Direct TV.

Dish TV rises despite hike in tariff rates

Part of Essel Group, Dish TV India has announced to increase its tariff plans by Rs 100 across India. The move comes after Government's imposition of 5% custom duty on import of set top boxes proposed in current budget.

The hike in custom duty has led a rise in input cost of set top boxes. The business model of DTH is based on subsidy and the component cost has surged considerably due to the increase in dollar exchange rate in the last one year.

Company’s set top box which was priced at Rs 1490 will now cost Rs 1,590. Similarly under its combo offer of Rs 2090 plus 3 months platinum/south platinum, will now cost Rs 2,190, whereas its others 'Ultimate sports bonanza' of Rs 1,790 and Rs 2,300 each will be available at Rs 1,890 and Rs 2,490 respectively.