TRAI
TRAI plans to limit satellite permits to five years, defying Musk's Starlink
India's TRAI plans a five-year allocation of satellite broadband spectrum, differing from Elon Musk's 20-year request. Recommendations on pricing and allocation will be finalized within a month. Mukesh Ambani's Reliance and Bharti Airtel have partnered with Musk's Starlink for distribution in India. The shorter timeframe will help TRAI understand market dynamics and adjust pricing if needed.
Airtel, SpaceX join hands: How will Indians be able to log on to Musk’s Starlink internet services?
Bharti Airtel has partnered with SpaceX for the launch of Starlink satellite internet in India, pending SpaceX's authorization. The collaboration aims to provide Starlink equipment through Airtel’s stores, offer services to businesses, and connect rural areas. The deal follows a clash between telecom companies and Starlink over satellite spectrum pricing. TRAI is still deliberating on spectrum allocation.
Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel lead subscriber growth in December 2024 amidst losses for BSNL and Vodafone Idea
Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel were the only telecom companies to experience net subscriber additions in December 2024, with Jio adding 3.9 million and Airtel gaining 1.03 million. In contrast, Vodafone Idea and BSNL saw subscriber declines, with the overall net increase in wireless subscribers reversing recent losses.
Airtel, Elon Musk's SpaceX join forces to beam Starlink’s super-fast internet to India
Bharti Airtel has partnered with SpaceX to provide high-speed internet in India via Starlink satellites. This collaboration aims to serve remote areas and enhance Airtel's network using SpaceX’s technology. The partnership includes offering Starlink equipment through Airtel’s outlets and focusing on underserved communities. Meanwhile, Indian telecom firms call for fair satellite spectrum pricing.
Airtel revenue mkt share surges in q3, closing gap with Rel Jio
Bharti Airtel led the growth in revenue market share among Indian telecom operators in Q3FY25, driven by solid performance across various markets. Meanwhile, Reliance Jio's revenue market share remained unchanged, and Vodafone Idea continued to struggle, hitting an all-time low in revenue market share.
Reliance Jio continues to gain users, Airtel bounces back in December
Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel saw net subscriber additions in December, with Jio adding 3.9 million customers and Airtel 1.03 million. Vodafone Idea and BSNL continued to lose subscribers, with declines of 1.7 million and 0.32 million, respectively. Overall, the wireless user base grew by 2 million, reversing the negative trend, with Jio leading the market share.
From foes to friends: How Musk, Trump & Indian telcos aligned on Satcom deals
SpaceX, owned by Elon Musk, has struck distribution deals with Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, showcasing a surprising shift from their previous rivalry. The collaboration is prompted by various factors including US political changes and the realization that satellite communications complement rather than compete with existing telecom services.
Trai rejects most of DoT requests on satcom service authorisation
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has rejected several requests from the Department of Telecommunications, maintaining separate authorisation for satellite-based and machine-to-machine services, citing their distinct nature and financial viability. Trai also stood by its recommendation for changes in authorisation rules despite opposition from DoT, ensuring light financial obligations for specialised telecom services.
Trai rejects most of DoT requests on Satcom service authorisation
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has rejected most requests from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on altering recommendations related to the authorisation regime. Trai insists satellite-based and machine-to-machine (M2M) telecommunication services should have separate authorisations to support specialised services and attract startups, despite DoT's preference for integrating them into main service authorisations.
New Telecom Act to be fully implemented by June-July: DoT's Neeraj Mittal
India’s Telecommunications Act 2023, aimed at reforming the telecom framework, will be fully operational by mid-2024. The new law simplifies licensing for service providers, reduces entry barriers for new players, and includes provisions for satellite spectrum allocation and optimal use of radio waves.
Telcos move Telecom Secy against shift to authorisation regime
Telecom operators urge the DoT to retain the existing contractual licensing regime, emphasizing its importance in maintaining regulatory certainty and protecting investments. They argue that the new authorisation-based regime, part of the Telecommunications Act, 2023, introduces uncertainty and undermines their contractual rights.
UPI ID linked to inactive mobile number? With this move of NPCI, it will be hard to misuse your UPI ID with recycled number
Users will soon be able to delink their old or inactive mobile numbers from UPI IDs easily. Starting March 31, 2025, UPI banks and PSPs must regularly update their internal databases, at least on a weekly basis, to reduce errors due to recycled or churned numbers. Explicit user consent will now be required for porting UPI numbers, which will potentially enhance user security and ensure accurate financial transactions.
Parliamentary panel presses MIB to expedite Broadcast Bill rollout
The Parliamentary Committee has urged the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) to expedite the Broadcasting Services Regulation Bill, following industry backlash over consultation transparency. The MIB plans detailed consultations and a draft Cabinet Note before the Bill's submission. Given the law's comprehensiveness, the committee seeks an update on its progress.
Airtel working on tech to wipe out scam, phishing
Bharti Airtel is developing technology to prevent online scams and phishing attempts for its 380 million mobile users. About 80% complete, this solution targets OTP misuse and scam links. However, it won’t control spam and scams on OTT apps due to encryption. Airtel urges regulatory intervention to tackle spam on OTT platforms.
Starlink's India tie-ups support view of satcom complementing telcos' offerings: Citi report
Starlink's collaborations with Jio and Bharti Airtel highlight that satellite communication services are seen as complementary to existing telecom offerings in India. These partnerships aim to enhance connectivity in remote areas and expand business services, easing concerns over satellite services being a competitive threat to traditional telecom firms.
Dish TV CEO seeks immediate rollout of TRAI recommendation on reducing DTH licensing fee
Dish TV CEO Manoj Dobhal urged the government to swiftly implement TRAI's recommendation to reduce the licensing fee for the DTH industry from 8% to 3% of AGR. This move could drive investment, foster innovation, and enhance consumer access to quality services, ensuring long-term industry sustainability.
Reliance Jio, Airtel seek ‘fair competition’ as govt weighs Starlink’s satcom licence
Reliance Jio and Airtel have asked the Indian government to ensure fair competition in the satellite communications sector as it reviews Elon Musk’s Starlink licence. They demand comparable spectrum pricing for satellite and terrestrial services to avoid market distortion. They acknowledge lower prices for non-commercial uses like disaster recovery but insist commercial satellite operators should not get preferential pricing.
Musk's Starlink set to disrupt India's internet market
SpaceX's Starlink is set to enter India's internet market through a partnership with Bharti Airtel, promising to revolutionise connectivity in rural areas. With advanced satellite technology, Starlink aims to overcome the traditional infrastructure limitations, potentially increasing competition and digital inclusion in India's vast and underserved regions.
When push comes to Musk
Sajjan Jindal and Sunil Mittal raise concerns over Tesla and Starlink's impact on Indian industries. While Jindal doubts Tesla's competition with local automakers, Mittal urges collaboration in telecom to enhance rural coverage, noting potential advantages of satellite services and the implications of partnerships with Musk's ventures.
After Airtel, Jio lays out red carpet for Starlink
Elon Musk's Starlink has partnered with Jio Platforms and Bharti Airtel to provide high-speed satellite internet in India. These collaborations represent a significant shift in India's telecom sector and promise to deliver advanced technology without high spectrum costs, benefiting millions of Indian consumers.
Bharti Airtel partners with Elon Musk's Starlink for high-speed satellite internet in India
Bharti Airtel has partnered with Elon Musk's SpaceX to bring the Starlink satellite internet service to India, marking a significant development in the nation's emerging satcom sector. This agreement aims to enhance connectivity, particularly in underserved areas, and complements Airtel's existing alliance with Eutelsat OneWeb.
DoT makes satellite equipment testing, certification mandatory ahead of satcom services launch
India will soon mandate testing and certification of satellite equipment, such as gateways and user terminals, for satcom services starting from August-end. This move comes as firms like Eutelsat-OneWeb, Jio-SES, and Starlink prepare to launch their services, awaiting spectrum allocation and regulatory approvals.
Good that SEBI's hearing voices
Sebi has formalized a public consultation process for securities regulations, requiring draft regulations to be published and feedback to be sought for at least 21 days. This move aligns Sebi with global standards, enhancing accountability, transparency, and stakeholder engagement.
Vi to benefit most from spectrum surrender proposal, say analysts
Vodafone Idea (Vi) is positioned to gain significantly if the government permits the surrender of spectrum acquired in auctions before 2022, benefiting from reduced annual payments. Vi's average revenue per MHz is far behind Airtel and Jio, highlighting its inefficient spectrum utilisation. Analysts expect continual market share losses for Vi until it completes its network investments.
TRAI proposes broadcast fee overhaul under new authorisation regime
TRAI recommends reducing fees and guarantees for broadcasting services and phasing out DTH license fees by FY27. It proposes transitioning to an authorisation system under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, integrating MSOs and LCOs, and examining OTT platforms’ inclusion. Interoperable set-top boxes are encouraged to enhance consumer choice.
TRAI bats for inter-operable set-top boxes, infrastructure sharing among broadcasters
TRAI has recommended interoperable set-top boxes, voluntary infrastructure sharing among broadcasters, and reduced net worth requirement for IPTV providers. These measures under the Telecommunications Act-2023 aim to foster growth and ease of doing business in the broadcasting sector.
Trai proposal on private 5G network raises hopes again for big enterprises
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has suggested allowing Infosys, Tata Communications, and others to establish private 5G networks through direct spectrum access. If approved, this could reduce costs by 40% and significantly boost enterprise 5G adoption in India, posing competition to traditional telecom operators.
View: BharatNet crucial for achieving progress towards Digital India's goals
BharatNet's network comprises two segments: BSNL-owned trunk line, and incremental additions connecting each GP headquarters. To ensure reliability, the quality of service must be guaranteed. This necessitates strong maintenance agreements with rigorous uptime guarantees and penalties for failures. Effective service-level agreements (SLAs) will be essential to instil confidence in operators and ensure consistent network performance.
Subjecting IXPs to authorisation regime flawed Trai move: Extreme Infocom founder
Operators of internet exchange points (IXPs) criticised the telecom regulator's plan to bring them under an authorisation regime, arguing that it contradicts global practices and reflects a misunderstanding of IXP operations. They asserted that IXPs are fundamentally different from ISPs and should not be regulated in the same manner.
TRAI recommends bringing teleport operators, IXPs under authorisation regime
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended regulating new telecom entities such as satellite earth station gateway providers under a new authorisation regime. Cloud-hosted networks and mobile number portability providers will also be included, while content delivery networks are excluded. The recommendations aim to foster growth and ease doing business. Application fees and guarantees for authorisations are specified.
TRAI recommends modalities of network authorisation to be granted under Telecom Act 2023
TRAI has recommended that the Centre grant network authorisations directly under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. The regulator suggests various authorisations for entities like infrastructure providers, SESG providers, and MNP providers, along with associated fees. These recommendations aim to foster growth and ease of doing business in the telecom sector.
To check spam, Trai plans to regulate telemarketers
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) will soon introduce a consultation paper detailing a regulatory framework for telemarketers to curb pesky calls and financial fraud. This move follows criticisms from major telecom operators like Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea that current regulations unfairly burden them while excluding telemarketers and OTT communication providers.
TRAI's pesky call norms: COAI rues higher fines for telcos, flags lack of rules for OTT comms
COAI expressed concerns over TRAI's new rules to combat spam, highlighting increased penalties on telcos and the lack of regulation for OTT communications. Despite telecom efforts, spam has surged on OTT platforms, leading to financial crimes. COAI urges a broader approach, including regulating telemarketers and OTT apps, to ensure accountability and consumer protection.
Satcom spectrum policy for urban connectivity shouldn't discriminate against terrestrial cos: Sunil Mittal
Sunil Mittal, Chairman of Bharti Group, advocates for shared satellite spectrum in rural areas but calls for non-discriminatory policies in urban regions. He emphasizes the importance of satellite connectivity for underserved regions and envisions a telecom sector with 3-4 players, promoting leadership through empowerment and persistence despite challenges.
Tata Play, Airtel Digital TV near merger plans as DTH industry struggles amid streaming boom
Tata and Bharti groups are finalizing a merger of their DTH businesses, Tata Play and Airtel Digital TV, due to consumer shifts to digital platforms. The merger, structured through a share swap, will boost Airtel's revenues and is to be managed by Airtel's senior management.
RBI move to formalise debt collection may complicate recovery, say experts
In a notification issued on January 17, the central bank said transactional calls by banks, mutual fund companies and other such financial service providers should only be undertaken through the ‘160’ series of contact numbers. The RBI referred to rules around voice calls that have been laid out by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) while instructing financial institutions to follow the same.
Satcom policy should be fair in urban areas: Sunil Mittal
Bharti Airtel chairman Sunil Mittal urges the government and telecom regulators to establish a non-discriminatory policy for satellite communication spectrum allocation in urban areas. He supports spectrum sharing for rural and remote locations to facilitate satellite broadband connectivity, crucial for reaching underserved populations.
Digital arrest frauds on the rise: How scammers target vulnerable victims and what you can do to protect yourself
Digital scams targeting mobile phone users are on the rise. A recent trend, 'digital arrest,' involves criminals posing as law enforcement to extort money. Vulnerable individuals, especially seniors, are often tricked into transferring large sums. Authorities urge vigilance and recommend steps to prevent such scams.
Pay-TV players fret as channels return to DD free dish
Leading broadcasters JioStar, Zee Entertainment, and Sony Pictures Networks India are set to relaunch free-to-air Hindi general entertainment channels on DD Free Dish. This move may intensify subscriber churn from pay-TV to free platforms, although it could also generate significant ad revenue for broadcasters.
Starlink nears IN-SPACe nod after agreeing to most conditions for satcom licence
Elon Musk's Starlink is set to receive approval from the Indian space regulator soon, allowing it to launch broadband services in the country. The company has agreed to comply with most provisions for securing a GMPCS license, but certain security-related requirements are still under discussion.
Missed call telcos say Trai norms to curb spam may just be a damp squib
India's telcos criticize the new Trai regulations aimed at curbing spam, arguing that the measures unduly burden telecom providers while leaving main stakeholders like telemarketers and OTT players unaffected. They contend that without regulating these entities, the issue of spam can't be effectively addressed.
TRAI tightens pesky call rules: Rs 2-10 lakh penalty for violations, new DND app launched
TRAI has introduced stringent rules to curb pesky calls and messages, including financial penalties of up to Rs 10 lakh for repeated violations by telecom providers. The updated regulations also allow complaints against unsolicited commercial communications without prior registration of preferences, and mandate standard identifiers for different message types. Additionally, telcos must flag spammers in real-time.
TRAI tightens rules to curb spams; fines on telcos for misreporting pesky calls, messages count
TRAI has introduced strict new rules against pesky calls and messages, imposing fines from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 10 lakh on telecom companies for frequent and repeated violations. Telecom operators must now analyze call and SMS patterns to identify potential spammers and avoid penalties for misreporting spam counts.
Bharti Airtel reaffirms its leadership in network performance in Tamil Nadu: TRAI report
Bharti Airtel has achieved a 100% call setup success rate in Tamil Nadu, as per TRAI's November 2024 report, solidifying its network performance leadership. The network boasted zero call drops and the fastest call setup time of 0.41 seconds. Additionally, Airtel recorded an average voice quality score of 4.06 and an average upload speed of 41.12 Mbps.
Bharti-backed OneWeb seeks fast-track approval from DoT for satellite broadband services in South Asian countries
Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb seeks rapid DoT approval to deploy earth station gateways in India for its LEO satellite constellation. This move aims to deliver broadband-from-space services in South Asia, excluding Pakistan and China, positioning India as a global satcom hub and providing significant geopolitical advantages.
Dish TV's net loss surges to Rs 47 crore in Q3
Dish TV reported a massive 16.6-fold increase in net loss for Q3 2024, reaching Rs 46.5 crore. Operating revenues dropped by 20.7% due to competition from OTT platforms and free DTH services. The company announced the creation of a subsidiary, Dish Bharat Ventures, to manage a new e-commerce platform, aiming for recovery in the next fiscal year.
BSNL Q3 Results: Telco swings to black with Rs 262 crore profit, aided by network expansion & cost control
BSNL Q3 Results: The public sector telco reported a net loss of Rs 1,569.22 crore in Q3FY24. Its mobility services revenue grew 15% YoY, while fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) and leased line services saw YoY increases of 18% and 14%, respectively.
Trai recommends new numbering system for landline users
Fixed-line users may need to dial the full 10-digit number for local calls if Trai's recommendation is accepted. This new numbering system aims to eliminate the STD code and free up unused numbers. Trai also suggested specific measures for deactivated numbers to optimize number use efficiently.
Trai puts more mmWave spectrum on the table for 5G
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has recommended auctioning nearly 3000 MHz of 5G spectrum in the 37-40 GHz bands at a reserve price of Rs 5.98 crore per MHz. These bands, having a better ecosystem, including due to 5G deployment in the US, are preferred. The Department of Telecommunications will decide on the auction date.
DoT pings Trai for clarity on authorisation regime
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has requested clarification from the telecom regulator on service authorisation framework points related to adjusted gross revenue (AGR). DoT aims to make the new regime attractive for voluntary adoption by telecom operators, avoiding legal challenges and fostering clarity among stakeholders.
Cellular services, the whole spectrum
Trai's recommendation on auctioning additional spectrum marks progress in India's 5G rollout, addressing urban population density challenges. Despite lower pricing trends and efforts to spur investment, telcos face difficulties in monetising 5G due to slow subscriber migration and high spectrum costs. Improved pricing for better telecom investment transmission is essential.
Telecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal stays Trai penalties on telcos over spam menace
The Telecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal has stayed Trai's financial penalties of over '141 crore on Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea for not curbing spam. The tribunal noted that the delay in implementing anti-spam regulations was beyond the telcos' control due to the development and Covid-19 impacts.
Airtel, Jio unveil revised mobile plans – See updated prices here
Telecom giants Jio and Airtel have revised their voice and SMS-only recharge plans to make them more affordable, following customer feedback and the TRAI’s review. Jio introduced new plans with reduced pricing and shorter validity, while Airtel made similar price cuts. Both companies aim to meet the growing demand for cost-effective mobile services, especially for those who do not require data.
DoT seeks 'Time-Bound' switch by telcos to authorisation rule
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) plans to transition all telecom license holders to an authorization-based regime under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, to eliminate dual frameworks and avoid litigation. The new regime, recommended by TRAI and approved by the Digital Communications Commission, replaces the current licensing system with an authorization mechanism where terms are notified separately.
'Make new voice-only plans cheaper': Trai asks telcos
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has asked telecom companies to significantly reduce the prices of their voice- and SMS-only tariff plans, aiming to cater to cost-conscious 2G users and others requiring minimal data services. This move is expected to slow down the migration to 4G and impact ARPU growth for telcos.
Telcos heed Trai's call, launch voice & SMS-only plans
Telecom operators, including Jio and Airtel, have introduced voice and SMS-only tariff packs following a directive from Trai. However, these packs are just about 2% cheaper than earlier data-bundled plans, and low data users may face 7-12% higher costs. This could slightly raise telcos' average revenue per user.
Reliance Jio gains subscribers in Nov as Airtel, Vodafone Idea, & BSNL report losses: TRAI
Reliance Jio added 1.21 million wireless subscribers in November, reversing a trend of four months of losses, while state-run BSNL lost 0.33 million users after a four-month growth streak. Meanwhile, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea also experienced subscriber losses, leading to an overall decline of 1.76 million wireless users.
Telcos introduce new voice and SMS only prepaid plans
Telecom operators Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have launched new voice and SMS only prepaid plans in India. This follows TRAI's directive for separate voice call and SMS plans. Airtel offers Rs 499 and Rs 1,959 plans, while Jio introduces Rs 458 and Rs 1,958 plans, all providing unlimited calls and varying SMS limits with 84 and 365 days validity.
Jio launches free 'sound pay' feature for its Bharat device
Jio introduces JioSoundPay, a free feature for their JioBharat device, offering instant audio confirmations for UPI payments to 5 crore small merchants. This enhances business operations for small vendors and saves them Rs 1,500 annually. To mark 75 years of India's Republic, Jio also offers contemporary renditions of Vande Mataram through JioSoundPay.
Airtel introduces prepaid voice and SMS-only plans
Bharti Airtel has restructured its prepaid plans following TRAI directives, focusing on Voice and SMS services. The Rs 509 plan now offers unlimited calls, 900 SMS for 84 days, and the Rs 1,999 plan provides unlimited calls, 3,600 SMS for a year. Data inclusion has been removed, addressing the needs of users with 2G phones or dual SIM setups.
Cyber frauds on RBI’s radar: Banks mandated to use TRAI’s MNRL technology by March 31, 2025
RBI acts big on cyber fraud: The RBI has advised all regulated entities like banks, etc to use TRAI's Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) hosted on the Digital Intelligence Platform to prevent cyber frauds. The RBI also said that mobile number of a customer can also be misused by scamsters in multiple ways for committing various types of online and other frauds. Read below to know how RBI intends to protect India's banking customers from cyber fraud.
Telcos lose more active users in Nov, but boost data base
Leading telecom operators Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea continued to lose active subscribers in November due to tariff hikes and churn among low-paying users. However, data user base increased, especially for Jio, indicating greater acceptance of higher tariffs. Analysts highlight Vi's continued subscriber losses as a significant concern but expect some improvement from 4Q25 onwards.
Stocks in news: Ultratech, Dr Reddy's, HUL, Go Digit, Airtel
FMCG major Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) profit beat the Street estimates as it rose 19% year-on-year (YoY) to Rs 3,001 crore in the third quarter. This was mainly on the back of one-time gain.
TRAI aims to align regulations for ground-based, satellite broadcasters
TRAI recommends aligning ground-based broadcasters' regulatory framework with 2022 guidelines for satellite broadcasters. GBBs can use terrestrial communication methods for channel delivery without restrictions and operate nationally. They may switch to satellite operations with government approval. TRAI also suggests examining regulations for Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television channels and updating policies if necessary.
New undersea cables activation in 2025 to push India's data transmission capacity 4x: Trai Chairman
India's data transmission capacity is set to increase fourfold by 2025 with new submarine cables connecting key global markets, according to Trai Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti. The Indian digital economy's contribution to GDP, currently at 12%, is projected to reach 20% by 2026-27, driven by unprecedented data consumption and vast user base.
DoT okays majority of Trai suggestions on service authorisation
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has approved most of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India's (Trai) recommendations on a new service authorisation mechanism. This mechanism will replace the existing licensing regime under the new Telecommunications Act, requiring telcos to migrate post-license tenure completion.
Satcom key to boosting connectivity: Trai chair
TRAI chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti highlighted the significance of satellite communication in boosting digital connectivity and financial inclusivity at the Digicom Summit 2025. India's digital public infrastructure has gained international traction, reducing transaction costs and enhancing transparency. TRAI recommends frameworks for M2M eSIMs, Terahertz spectrum, and automotive radars, fostering innovation and indigenous manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.
Public Wi-Fi companies back Trai call to cap data rates under PM-WANI
Public Wi-Fi hotspot providers under the PM-WANI scheme support the telecom regulator's recommendation for a price ceiling but seek more incentives to expand affordable internet services. The lack of significant progress in achieving hotspot milestones is attributed to resistance from telcos and ISPs, and low demand due to inexpensive mobile data packages.
Trai proposes capping data rates under PM Wani
The telecom regulator proposes capping the broadband connectivity costs for public data offices (PDOs) at twice the retail home broadband rate. This move aims to incentivize telcos to support PDOs, enhancing the PM-Wani Wi-Fi hotspot initiative's reach, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Telcos want DoT to take Trai's international call
Telecom operators in India are urging the DoT to accept Trai's definition of international traffic, which could increase telcos' SMS revenues by over ₹400 crore annually. The new definition will help prevent international messages from being misclassified as domestic, addressing a longstanding issue involving multinational companies and e-commerce giants.
Use '1600xx' number series to call customers for transactions: RBI to banks
The Reserve Bank of India has directed banks to use specific phone numbering series for transactional and promotional purposes to prevent financial fraud. The '1600xx' series is for transactional calls, while the '140xx' series is for promotions. Banks must also monitor and clean customer databases and follow Telecom Regulatory Authority of India guidelines, aiming for compliance by March 31, 2025.
DoT pushes telcos to roll out caller ID feature for mobile phones urgently
The Department of Telecommunications has instructed telecom operators to promptly implement the Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) service on mobile phones to curb spam and scam calls. Trials are ongoing, and its implementation is challenging for 2G users. Concerns about privacy and existing caller ID apps have been raised by the telco and handset industries.
DoT gets cabinet nod to refarm 1100 MHz spectrum across bands
The Union cabinet has approved the Department of Telecommunications' plan to refarm 1100 MHz spectrum across various bands for future auctions, worth approximately ₹5 lakh crore. This move aims to meet the infrastructure needs for 5G and potentially 6G services, as industries demand increased mid-band spectrum availability.
DoT seeks Trai clarity on bank guarantee encashment
The communications ministry seeks clarity from the telecom regulator on which licence clauses can be invoked to encash telcos' bank guarantees to recover fines for not effectively managing spam. Trai had urged the government to encash these guarantees, while discussions continue on bringing telemarketers under regulatory control for accountability.
Tighter anti-spam norms in a mth; TRAI pilot soon to onboard past user consents onto digital system
TRAI will begin a pilot to onboard past and paper-based consents for commercial communications onto its DLT platform. Also, new spam control regulations and separate tariff vouchers for voice and SMS will be implemented. Recommendations on satellite spectrum and network authorisation are on the agenda for 2025.
Senior TRAI officer arrested for bribery
CBI arrested TRAI officer Narender Singh Rawat for allegedly taking a bribe of Rs 1 lakh from a cable operator in Himachal Pradesh. Rawat demanded bribes to favor cable operators in compliance matters. The bribe was for assessing regulatory documents and avoiding license cancellations. Rawat was caught red-handed in his Delhi office.
DoT seeks clarity from Trai on encashing telcos’ BGs to recover spam penalties
The communications ministry is seeking clarity from Trai on which licence clauses can be invoked to encash telcos' bank guarantees for recovering fines related to spam. The ministry's future action depends on Trai's response, highlighting a regulatory gap with no specific clause addressing unsolicited commercial communications.
Netflix, Amazon, and Google invest big in CDNs to meet growing data demands in India's Tier-2 cities
Exponential growth in data consumption driven by OTT platforms, ecommerce websites, and government services is prompting companies like Netflix, Amazon, Meta, Google, Cloudflare, and Akamai to invest in content delivery networks in smaller Indian cities, addressing the demand for high-performance CDNs amidst increasing internet penetration and booming digital economy.
Low data rates: India's new ringtone to attract foreign companies
India is promoting its low data tariffs and rapid adoption of 5G services to attract foreign investments from companies in sectors such as ride hailing, telemedicine, and digital payments. The government aims to highlight affordable internet access and the growing availability of 5G devices to potential global investors.
Trai to come out with recommendation for satcom spectrum soon: Trai Chairman
Trai is set to issue recommendations on rules for satellite spectrum allocation soon. This will help in providing satellite-based broadband services across India. Telecom companies like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel want spectrum auctions, while companies like Starlink and Amazon's Project Kuiper prefer administrative allocation.
TRAI mandates voice and SMS-only tariff packs for price-conscious consumers, impacting ARPU growth
Price-sensitive mobile users can now opt for voice and SMS-only packs as mandated by Trai, benefiting 150 million remaining 2G users, dual SIM owners, the elderly, and rural residents. Despite private carriers' opposition, this move may slow down migration to 4G and 5G, impacting ARPU growth.
Govt to issue guidelines on pesky calls next month: Consumer Affairs Sec
The consumer affairs ministry will issue guidelines next month to address unsolicited commercial communications or pesky calls, aligning with upcoming Trai regulations. The draft, prepared in consultation with stakeholders, focuses on business entities' roles. Trai will also introduce tougher norms to protect consumers following increased complaints.
Trai recommends issuing 5 Mhz spectrum more to railways in premium 700 Mhz band
India's telecom regulator, TRAI, recommended allocating the remaining 5 MHz of 700 MHz spectrum to Indian Railways for safety applications. This adds to the 5 MHz already allocated in 2021. TRAI suggested a nominal fee for this captive use, unlike the commercial rate of Rs 3,927 crore/MHz.
Stop overpaying! Indians can soon buy only voice, SMS recharge vouchers
Trai has amended tariff rules to require mobile service providers to offer a separate plan for voice calls and SMS for customers who do not use data, removing the 90-day cap on special recharge coupons and extending it to up to 365 days. The new rules cater to users who need only voice and SMS services.
Telcos call Trai's plan to split data, voice packs as 'regressive'
Telecom companies in India have criticised Trai's mandate for voice and SMS-only tariff packs, arguing it could hinder upgrades to 4G and 5G networks and deter 2G users from data services, thereby affecting access to digital initiatives. They believe it contradicts the move towards a data-centric Digital India.
Telecom industry posts 6.75 per cent AGR Growth in Q2 FY25 driven by tariff hikes, data surge
The telecom industry experienced 6.75% growth in AGR, reaching Rs 75,310 crore for the July-September 2025 quarter due to tariff hikes and higher data usage. Monthly ARPU from wireless services rose 9.60% to Rs 172.57. The internet user base slightly increased to 971.50 million. License fees collected by the DoT also climbed to Rs 6,023 crore.
Trai recommends additional 5 MHz to Railways in 700 MHz band
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended allocating an additional 5 MHz of 700 MHz spectrum to the Indian Railways for safety and security purposes. This adds to the 5 MHz already assigned, creating a contiguous 10 MHz block. TRAI also suggested a separate 5 MHz block for metro and rapid rail networks.
Trai to roll out user-friendly DND app to combat spam menace
"The intention is to make it user-friendly... the experience should be good, and it should become the preferred app for DND registration," Trai chairman AK Lahoti said, adding that additional functionalities that can be built in, such as reporting and blocking spam calls, need to be examined.
TV channels raise tariffs despite shrinking base as costs bite
TV broadcasters like SPNI and ZEEL are increasing channel bouquet rates by over 10% due to rising content costs and a challenging advertising environment. This comes as the pay-TV industry faces subscriber loss to OTT platforms and free alternatives like DD Free Dish.
Jio adds more active users than Airtel in Oct, but the Sunil Mittal-led telco leads on 4G/5G user gains: Trai
In October 2024, Reliance Jio gained more active users than Airtel, but Airtel led in attracting high-paying 4G/5G users. Vodafone Idea continued to struggle, losing both active and 4G users. Jio's overall subscriber base shrunk as inactive users were removed, while Airtel's grew. Jio also extended its lead in the landline market.
TDSAT declines stay on DD Free Dish pay channel regulation, gives broadcasters two weeks to comply
The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) rejected broadcasters' plea to stay TRAI's new tariff regulation for DD Free Dish. Broadcasters must now publish a revised Reference Interconnect Offer within two weeks. The regulation mandates channels be either free on all platforms if free on DD Free Dish or withdrawn from it to maintain pay channel status.
Explainer: Draft DPDP rules 2025 aim to protect citizens' data
The Indian government has released draft Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules 2025 for public consultation, aimed at implementing the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. The rules outline data protection measures for children, transfer of personal data outside India, consent management, and the establishment of a Data Protection Board among others.
Jio Star files broadcast tariff at higher rates
Jio Star, a merger between Star India and Viacom18, has announced 83 channel packs, increasing prices by 18%. The packs include SD, HD and FTA channels. They offer channels across various genres and regional languages. Competitors like Sony and Zee have also raised prices. Final rates will be negotiated with distributors.
Trai issues 'definition' of overseas SMS traffic
Trai's introduction of the definition of international SMSes under the unified licence has put an end to a decade long debate between telecom operators and multinational corporations (MNCs). Until now, MNCs were processing international transactions from servers outside of India but sending SMSs from domestic systems. India's telcos said this was a way for MNCs to avoid paying almost a 20 times higher cost for delivering messages which were originating overseas.
War on spam: Mandate on message traceability will not delay message delivery, says TRAI
TRAI assures that its mandate for enhancing message traceability to curb spams will not cause delays in message delivery or OTP receipt. Despite media reports suggesting potential disruptions from December 1, TRAI clarifies that access providers have implemented technical solutions and extended the transition time for upgrades until November 30.
Trai move on int'l SMSes unlikely to help Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea's cash flow
Last week, Trai issued recommendations to industry definitions of 'international' and 'domestic' traffic, which were missing in the Unified Licence so far. These recommendations need Department of Telecommunications approval to come into effect. The notice read, "Any incoming application to person (A2P) SMS message shall be treated as an international SMS message, if it cannot be generated, transmitted or received without the use or intervention of any electronic device, computer system or computer application located outside India".
DoT will seek to address Trai concerns on dilution of power
Government officials say the regulator is concerned about some clauses in the draft bill, including the ones that seek to give the DoT overriding powers on issues relating to tariffs and quality of service. Currently, these issues fall within Trai's purview.
2G scam: CBI asks TRAI to review claim of zero loss
The CBI has rejected telecom regulator Trai's report that it did not recommend auction of 2G air waves or an increase in entry fees implying no loss of revenue.
Most operators are not meeting call drop benchmark: Trai
Trai officials said they will write to Department of Telecom for amending the Trai Act to give it powers to impose penalty on telecom operators.
Telcos face new fines over failure to curb spam calls
India's telecom regulator, TRAI, has fined major telecom operators around ₹12 crore for failing to curb spam calls, adding to previous unpaid penalties totaling ₹141 crore. The operators argue they shouldn't be solely responsible, pointing to OTT platforms and businesses also contributing to the problem.
