Telecom Policy
DoT issues Rs 7,800-crore demand notice to Tata Communications over AGR dues
The Department of Telecom has demanded Rs 7,800 crore from Tata Communications. This demand is for adjusted gross revenue dues from 2005 to 2024. Tata Communications is reviewing the demand notice. The company believes its licenses differ from those in a previous Supreme Court judgement. Tata Communications plans to defend its position based on legal opinions.
Draft telecom policy puts focus on jobs, accessibility
National Telecom Policy (NTP-25) aims to revolutionize India's telecom sector by 2030. The policy focuses on universal connectivity, job creation, and technological advancement. It targets widespread 4G and 5G coverage, increased fiberization, affordable access, and establishing India as a global telecom hub, fostering innovation and cybersecurity.
All India Digital Cable Federation urges Centre to reject TRAI's proposal to reduce DTH license fee
The All India Digital Cable Federation (AIDCF) has urged the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to reconsider TRAI's proposal to reduce DTH license fees, arguing it would create unfair competition. AIDCF contends that DTH operators benefit from free spectrum while cable operators face substantial infrastructure costs.
TDSAT halts ₹141 cr spam penalties on telcos, next hearing on August 8
India's top telcos have been temporarily spared from paying Rs141 crore in spam-related penalties, as the TDSAT adjourned the case hearing to August 8. The tribunal has requested Trai to submit an affidavit, while the telcos argue that delays in implementing spam control measures were due to Covid and the pending DCA platform deployment.
Stay tuned, satcom services may come to you by year-end
Satellite communication services are poised for commercial launch in India by December, with Eutelsat OneWeb, Reliance Jio-SES, and Starlink securing necessary permits. The government is finalizing spectrum allocation terms, aiming for allotment by October. Following spectrum allocation, commercial services are expected to commence within a month, potentially revolutionizing India's space economy.
DoT likely to pass on tech industry call for more 6 GHz band for WiFi
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) will not delicense additional spectrum in the 6 GHz band despite industry requests, believing sufficient airwaves are already available for WiFi. However, DoT is considering a marginal increase in transmit power for outdoor WiFi devices using 6 GHz, contingent on non-interference with existing applications and satellite operations, particularly defense-related functions.
Trai’s new proposal may help check spam as it complements data protection laws
Trai's new consent mechanism pilot for spam control aims to harmonize with India's data protection law, addressing past failures due to poor coordination and enforcement. Experts emphasize that harmonizing regulations is crucial for effective implementation. Telcos highlight the need to include OTT platforms for comprehensive spam prevention, despite potential initial business costs for system upgrades.
Cabinet likely clears major waiver on spectrum dues for govt departments
The Union Cabinet likely approved waiving penalties and most interest on overdue spectrum payments. This benefits central and state government departments. These departments include police, defence, and Prasar Bharti. The waiver covers roughly 95% of interest dues and penalties. Departments will pay the principal amount plus 5% interest.
DoT proposes changes in cyber security rules to curb frauds by misusing phone numbers
The Department of Telecom is proposing new cyber security rules to combat mobile phone fraud. A new platform will validate phone numbers used by entities like banks for transactions. Authorized entities will pay ₹1.5 per validation request, while others pay ₹3. A pilot project is underway to flag fraudulent numbers, deactivating them for 90 days.
TRAI prescribes cap for tariffs charged to PDOs under PM-WANI scheme
Telecom regulator TRAI has set a tariff framework for the PM-WANI scheme. This move caps connectivity rates for Public Data Offices. The rates will be up to twice the Fiber to the Home broadband plans. This aims to boost internet access via public Wi-Fi hotspots. The goal is to balance affordability for PDOs and fair compensation for service providers.
Must Watch
Starlink becomes latest entrant to get a satcom licence in India
Elon Musk's Starlink has secured a crucial licence from India's telecoms ministry. This approval removes a significant obstacle. It brings Starlink closer to launching commercial services in India. Starlink joins OneWeb and Reliance Jio. These companies have already received similar approvals. They are set to provide services across the nation.
DoT to review public sourcing policy
The Department of Telecommunications is set to reassess its public procurement policy, emphasizing the Make-in-India initiative. This review aims to incorporate more products and potentially ease local sourcing requirements, acknowledging challenges in achieving high local content in electronic and telecom products. Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on product inclusion, local content requirements, and calculation criteria within 30 days.
Reliance, Airtel group challenges 'low' India satcom fee which can help Starlink
Indian telecom giants, represented by COAI, are worried that if satellite spectrum is priced too low, companies like Starlink will benefit unfairly. They argue that traditional telecom players pay significantly more for spectrum through auctions. COAI urges a review, emphasizing equivalent pricing for similar services to ensure fair competition as Reliance Jio and Airtel have invested heavily in 5G spectrum.
Telecom department plans to relax local content requirements under Make in India policy
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is set to revise its public procurement policy, potentially incorporating more products under the Make-in-India initiative. This review aims to address challenges in achieving high local content (LC) due to India's limited component ecosystem.
TRAI begins consultation for modalities of spectrum assignment in backhaul bands
TRAI has initiated consultations on assigning spectrum in several bands, including the lower 6 GHz, 7 GHz, 13 GHz, 15 GHz, 18 GHz, 21 GHz, E-Band, and V-Band. The regulator seeks stakeholder input on demand, terms, and charges, particularly for E and V bands crucial for high-throughput 5G backhaul.
New telecom policy targets 2x export growth, one million jobs by 2030
India's upcoming National Telecom Policy (NTP) aims to double telecom exports and achieve universal connectivity by 2030. The policy targets increasing the ICT sector's GDP contribution to 11% and attracting significant investment in telecom infrastructure. Focus will be on job creation in emerging technologies and integrating satellite networks to expand services, ensuring 4G/5G coverage and fiber connectivity across the nation.
