Chandigarh, April 11 (IANS) Promising to transform mobile telephony in Punjab, union Minister of State for Communication and Information Technology Sachin Pilot Sunday launched the Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited's value-added services (VAS) in the state.

The new VAS launched include 'dial a video', 'live share services' and 'video SMS' services.

"The value added services would transform communications for users in Punjab," Pilot said here.

The minister said that BSNL was reaching out with its services in the most interior and difficult parts of the country.

He said the BSNL had installed towers and provided services in Maoist-affected areas where private mobile operators were reluctant to go.

Users of 'dial a video' services can access entertainment or video based services on their mobile anytime anywhere without requiring a special data plan or settings, as long as the user has a video call enabled phone, a BSNL official said.

"With 'live share services', users will be able to share videos instantly through their mobile phones with their families, colleagues, and friends over SMS or popular social networking sites. The 'video SMS service' will allow users to leave video messages for anyone as long as they have a phone which supports video calls," he added.

Pilot also announced significant progress in 'Project Arrow', the Department of Posts project to enhance the quality of service in core areas' and upgrading the 'look and feel' of post offices.

"At least 25 post offices are already covered under this scheme. 18 more post offices are now ready at a cost of Rs.2.87 crore," Pilot said.

Project Arrow, which has been awarded by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for its innovative orientation and approach, lays strong emphasis on improving efficiencies of mail delivery, remittances, savings accounts and other services.

Pilot said in all big post offices in Punjab, a uniform brand, new computer hardware, and a single window service system has been attempted with a view to reduce waiting time for customers.