The Government of India’s Telecom Sector has seen a rapid emergence in the past years, reaching a subscriber base of 1.179 billion, marking its presence as the second largest in the world. Recent developments introduce the Telecommunications Bill 2023 to replace older acts and streamline processes in the industry. Let’s delve deeper into the details of this transformation and understand the key features of the bill.
Introduction of the Telecommunications Bill 2023
The central government recently debuted the Telecommunications Bill 2023 in the Lok Sabha, aiming to repeal previous acts such as the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950. It also makes certain amendments to the TRAI Act, 1997.
Key Provisions in the Telecommunications Bill
The new bill presents guidelines on various aspects of telecommunication activities, assignment of spectrum, satellite internet allotments, interception and search powers, standard specifications, right of way, protection of users, biometric authentication, and appointments to TRAI. The central government will be responsible for managing and overseeing all these activities. Only authorized personnel will be allowed to carry out telecom related activities.
Satellite Internet Allotments and the Role of OneWeb and SpaceX’s Starlink
In light of advancements in technology, the bill introduces provisions for allocating spectrum to satellite internet providers like OneWeb and U.S.-based companies such as SpaceX’s Starlink. This will facilitate the provision of satellite-based Internet services.
Setting New Standards and Right of Way
The central government can prescribe standards for telecom equipment, infrastructure, networks, and services. The bill also provides rules for establishing telecom infrastructure over public or private property.
Measures to Protect Users
The bill brings in measures for user protection such as requirement of prior consent to receive advertising messages, creation of Do Not Disturb registers, and a mechanism to report malware or specified messages. It also ensures a grievance redressal system.
Modifications to TRAI Appointments
The bill amends the TRAI Act to allow individuals with a minimum of 30 years of professional experience to serve as the chairperson, and those with at least 25 years of experience to serve as members.
Digital Bharat Nidhi and Regulation of OTT Apps
The bill retains the Universal Service Obligation Fund provision from the 1885 Act, renames it as Digital Bharat Nidhi, and extends its use to research and development. In a significant move, the bill removes over-the-top (OTT) services and apps from the definition of telecommunication services.
Offenses, Penalties and Adjudication Process
The bill lays out penalties for various criminal and civil offenses associated with unauthorized telecommunication activities. The central government will appoint an adjudicating officer to oversee inquiries and pass orders against civil offenses under the Bill.
Status of the Telecom Sector in India
India’s Telecom industry is flourishing with a 1.179 Billion subscriber base as of August 2023. It has a tele-density of 84.69%, indicating high penetration rates. Notably, the average monthly data consumption per wireless data subscriber has risen dramatically to 17.36 GB in March 2023.
Government Initiatives in the Telecom Sector
Several Government initiatives have contributed significantly to the development of the Telecom Sector in India, including the Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface, the Bharatnet project, the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, and the Bharat 6G Alliance. These initiatives aim to bolster India’s telecom infrastructure and make it more efficient and user-friendly.
