The government has tabled the Draft Indian Telecommunications Bill, 2023 in the Lok Sabha. The new bill amends and consolidates the laws relating to the development, expansion and operation of telecommunication services and networks, and the assignment of spectrum. It seeks to replace the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950. The bill seeks to keep over-the-top (OTT) services outside the purview of the proposed law. It defines telecommunication services as “any service for telecommunications”. According to the first schedule of the bill, spectrum for certain satellite-based services such as very small aperture terminal, global mobile personal communication by satellites, national long distance, international long distance, mobile satellite service in L and S bands, teleports, television channels and direct-to-home can be allocated outside of auctions through the administrative process.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has revised the methodology to levy spectrum charges for captive users, rationalising the fees paid by such players. DoT will now charge for spectrum based on the area as against the number of devices. The revised charges will come into effect from April 1, 2024.
DoT has announced the discontinuation of paper-based know-your-customer verification for new mobile connections, effective January 1, 2024. The move aims to streamline the mobile user enrolment process, reduce costs for telcos and improve security by curbing SIM fraud.
The Haryana cabinet has approved the revision of the Communication and Connectivity Infrastructure Policy, 2023. The updated policy supersedes the Communication and Connectivity Policy, 2017 and aligns with the amended Indian Telegraph Right of Way Rules, as notified by the Ministry of Communications in 2022.
