Vodafone India, the country's second largest telecom operator in terms of subscribers, on Tuesday announced the upcoming launch of its 4G networks in India on the FDD-LTE 1800MHz band. The rollout of 4G mobile services will begin from Monday in Kochi, Kerala.

The operator already offers 3G services in Kerala on the 2100MHz band, and claims with the rollout of 4G it will be the first telecom operator in Kerala to offer 2G/ 3G/ 4G services on its own radio.

Vodafone in an emailed statement added it will increase the intensity of its 4G rollout covering important metros - Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata in the first phase. It added that testing of 4G services in these locations has already commenced successfully. The company had announced December rollouts for Mumbai, Delhi-NCR and Kolkata back in October.

Vodafone had first announced a December rollout time-frame in August, following Airtel's launch of its 4G services the same month.

Existing subscribers in Kochi can avail of a free upgrade to 4G services along with a new "Superfast 4G SIM". Users also get a free 3-month subscription to Hungama Play, with access to over 7,500 titles (including over 200 in Malayalam). Also bundled, is access to free unlimited music streaming on Vodafone Music.

Other benefits Kochi customers can avail include "100% Extra Data", for all 4G RED customers for 3 months. 4G data packs range from a trial pack of 120MB at Rs. 29 to a bonanza pack of 20GB at Rs. 2,499. Users can also use 4G mobile Wi-Fi hotspots for up to 10 devices.

Finally, Vodafone adds that Kochi customers can get an instant SIM swap at all Vodafone stores and select retail outlets in the city, request for a 4G SIM through the call centre or SMS, and avail of same day door-step delivery of postpaid 4G SIMs.

Announcing the launch of Vodafone's 4G mobile services in India, Sunil Sood, MD & CEO, Vodafone India said, "4G has the potential to revolutionize the mobile experience through powerful innovation that impacts how we work and live. Vodafone's global expertise and experience of launching 4G across 19 countries gives us a better understanding of this technology and the needs of the 4G customer. Accordingly, we are delighted to launch our ultrafast 4G services in India that will give customers the power to experience the most advanced wireless broadband experience available across the globe today. As a steadfast partner of Digital India, we remain focused on deploying multiple technologies -be it 2G, 3G and now 4G-for optimum use as each technology has its own vital role to play in servicing the myriad connectivity needs of consumers across the country. "

In its emailed statement, the company added that Kerala is a focus market for it. Over the last 18 months, the company has invested more than Rs. 700 crores in Kerala towards network expansion and modernisation. It also has 303 exclusive retail stores in the state.