The Government of India plans to amend Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 to ensure that only the mobile handsets meeting radiation standards set by the government are imported, manufactured or sold in the country.
The government is set to implement stricter radiation norms for mobile phones and telecom towers. As per the new radiation norms coming into effect from September 1, 2012, the radio frequency (RF) exposure limits are to be lowered to one-tenth of the existing level. With new radiation norms in place, it will be mandatory for handset manufacturers to emboss and display the specific absorption level (SAR) ? the rate at which RF energy is absorbed by the human body, on the handsets.
Further, the new radiation norms stipulate that the manufacturer?s in the mobile handset booklet should mention that consumers use a wireless hands-free system with a low power bluetooth emitter to reduce radiation. The booklet should also include instructions for people with medical history or with implants like pacemakers asking them to keep them at least 30 cm away from the implant.
The violation of radiation limits or non-certification by the operators will attract a fine of Rs 500,000 per tower.
