TRAI encourages stakeholders to put their comments on the consultation paper as it wants to ensure that the regulatory framework meets the industry's needs.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has released a consultation paper seeking comments from stakeholders on Network Authorisations to be granted under the ‘Telecommunication Act, 2023’. The paper is titled ‘Terms and Conditions of Network Authorisation to be granted under the Telecommunication Act, 2023’.

The Department of Telecommunication sent a letter to TRAI on 26 July, where it sought recommendations from TRAI on matters related to the terms and conditions, including fees or charges, for authorization to provide telecommunication services as per the provisions of the Telecommunication Act 2023.

Section 3(1) of the act provides guidelines for obtaining authorization from the Central Government for any entity wishing to provide telecommunication services or establish a network.

The consultation paper seeks recommendations from stakeholders on the need to change/modify the eligibility conditions, area of operation, validity period of authorization, scope, and terms & conditions of the Content Delivery Network authorization and Internet Exchange Points authorization.

The paper also sought recommendations for fees or charges associated with different types of authorizations, including rationalization of entry fees and bank guarantees. The regulatory authority asked recommendations for inter-entity agreements such as those who establish and operate telecommunication networks and those who provide telecommunication services. It also sought comments on which devices and equipment should be under the ambit of 'in-building solutions' (IBS) and if there is a need to introduce new authorisation under Section 3(1) b of the Telecommunication Act 2023.

TRAI also asked for insights as to how the development of new technologies such as cloud-hosted networks and services like Unified communication as a service, should influence the regulatory framework. The regulatory body wants to refine regulatory frameworks under the act, inviting recommendations for any other sections of the Telecommunication Act 2023.

The authority had sought comments by November 12 with counter comments due by November 19, 2024.