The Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) has dismissed Telecom Regulator Authority of India?s proposal to provide state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL?S) Rs 27.50 billion subsidy for its rural landline operation.
USOF declined the subsidy proposal claiming that such a move will result in duplication of subsidy payout. The USOF, which is an independent body within the Department of telecommunications (DoT) maintains that it already has a running pact to provide Rs 15 billion of subsidy to BSNL to support its rural landline operations.
The USOF has communicated its objection to TRAI?s proposal. The Telecom Commission scheduled to meet on May 26, 2012 will take a take a final call on the suggestion.
