The new National Telecom Policy (NTP) may see the light of the day soon. Kapil Sibal, Minister of Communications and IT, has reportedly said that the new policy may be unveiled in April 2012.
Prior to this, the draft NTP was announced in October 2011. The draft policy proposed several key initiatives, including simplification and rationalisation of the licensing regime, and a transparent system for allocation of spectrum and its efficient usage.
It also envisaged discovery of spectrum pricing through market-related processes and free nationwide roaming. It aimed to address other crucial issues as well, including mergers and acquisitions (M&As), and spectrum sharing. With regard to M&As, Sibal has reportedly said that the new norms are expected to permit the new entity to have a combined market share of up to 35 per cent.
The NTP also promised to make available secure, reliable and affordable voice telephony and high speed broadband services to every citizen, with special focus on rural and remote areas. It is also expected to help improve the broadband experience by enhancing delivery speeds, besides making India a global hub for manufacturing electronic products, including telecom equipment. Security concerns will also be a key focus area.
Currently, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India is working on recommendations for various telecom-related issues. The new telecom policy is expected to be unveiled once these are finalised.
