TELECOM MINISTER
Tamil a sweet language; PM wants every language to get its due respect: Union Minister Vaishnaw
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw lauds Tamil language as a national and global asset, emphasizing its cultural depth and sweetness. He highlights Prime Minister Modi's focus on ensuring respect and visibility for all Indian languages, citing examples such as multi-language inclusion in the Telecom and Data Protection Laws.
Ashwini Vaishnaw acknowledges states' role in making electronics India's second-largest export
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw praised the growth of India's electronics industry, now the second largest export sector, crediting state cooperation, including Tamil Nadu's. He highlighted increased railway budget allocations for Tamil Nadu and emphasized cooperation above politics for public benefit. Tamil Nadu exports 36% of India's electronics and leads in organized sector female employment.
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.
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.
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.
Partnerships orchestrated by PM to buy goodwill with Trump: Congress on Airtel, Jio deals with Starlink
Both Airtel and Jio have announced partnerships with Starlink to bring its high-speed internet services to India, a move allegedly orchestrated by PM Modi to gain favor with US President Trump through Elon Musk. The Congress has raised concerns, particularly regarding national security and control over connectivity.
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MTNL shares soar 18% on Rs 2,135 crore asset monetisation
MTNL share price surged 18.4% after earnings of Rs 2,134.61 crore from asset monetization were disclosed. Since 2019, BSNL and MTNL together generated Rs 12,984.86 crore from monetizing assets. BSNL has earned Rs 2,387.82 crore, while MTNL earned Rs 258.25 crore from their unused assets' monetization.
It's Ambani vs Mittal, again! Sky is not the limit this time around
Starlink Jio Airtel Deal: Telecom giants Airtel and Jio have signed a pact with Starlink to offer broadband internet in India, pending regulatory approval. This partnership aims to enhance high-speed internet access, especially in remote regions. Through this collaboration, all parties hope to strengthen their market presence and improve digital connectivity across the country.
BSNL, MTNL raise Rs 12,984 crore from asset monetisation
Since 2019, BSNL and MTNL have earned a substantial Rs 12,984.86 crore from monetising non-essential land, buildings, towers, and fibre assets. These state-owned telecom firms have utilised government-approved guidelines for selling assets they no longer require, ensuring close monitoring of the impact on their operations.
Govt not privatising telecom firms BSNL, MTNL, says Union MoS Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar
India has confirmed that it is not privatising state-owned telecom firms BSNL and MTNL, according to Deputy Communications Minister Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar. The federal government recently approved substantial investments, including an 800 million dollar capital expenditure for BSNL and 60 billion rupees for the 4G expansion of both MTNL and BSNL.
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.
Mukesh Ambani's big bets at risk from Trump, Musk & US rivals
Ambani faces significant challenges as intensified US-India trade tensions could disrupt his $50 billion investments in retail and digital services. Potential regulatory changes, competition from Elon Musk's Starlink, and oil import pressures add to Ambani's troubles, impacting the valuation of Reliance Industries Ltd.
Govt says cyber fraud cases jumped over four-fold in FY24, caused $20 million losses
Affordable data packs in the world's most populous country, starting as low as 11 rupees ($0.13) per hour, have increased internet access and created a $1 trillion mobile payments market for firms such as Paytm, Google Pay and Walmart-backed PhonePe.
ET Awards: Without PM Modi's confidence, trust, and the opportunity that he has given, it wouldn't have been possible to be here on this stage, says Ashwini Vaishnaw
Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the essential support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in implementing significant reforms in the telecom and railways sectors. He emphasized the personal sacrifices his family made when he was given the responsibility. Vaishnaw expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the country's growth during The Economic Times Awards for Corporate Excellence.
Can Trump’s tariffs make India's economy stronger? Former RBI deputy Governor Viral Acharya thinks so
US tariffs threats by Trump are pushing India to lower trade barriers, spurring competition and growth. Modi sees it as a big opportunity for businesses. Ex-RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya expects Indian firms to innovate and improve efficiency. Gradual tariff reductions will boost investments and transformation, leading to higher quality jobs and a larger manufacturing base.
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.
UK PM Keir Starmer meets EAM S Jaishankar to speed up FTA talks
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar discussed advancing the proposed free trade agreement with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and reviewed FTA negotiation progress with UK Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds. They also addressed the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the opening of new Indian consulates in Belfast and Manchester to boost regional ties.
Covered entire gamut of bilateral ties: Jaishankar on talks with UK's David Lammy
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had productive talks with UK counterpart David Lammy on bilateral ties, including FTA negotiations and strategic coordination, at Chevening House. They discussed regional issues like the Ukraine conflict and emphasized India-UK collaboration in technology and trade. Jaishankar's UK visit aims to strengthen friendly ties, with plans to inaugurate new Indian consulates.
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.
India expands UK footprint as GBP 41 billion partnership boosts growth
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to the UK aims to reinforce the GBP 41 billion India-UK trading relationship. The visit features the announcement of new Indian consulates in Belfast and Manchester and discussions on economic growth, technological innovation, and global challenges.
Government panel pulls up railways and telecom for slow asset monetisation
A core group criticises railways for poor performance in asset monetisation and urges various ministries to meet higher targets. Concerns were raised over slow progress and reduced targets in railway and housing projects. The road transport ministry aims to monetise 35,000 km of highways to generate ₹3.5 lakh crore.
Reliance Industries shares fall 3% to fresh 52-week low
Shares of Reliance Industries Ltd fell about 3% to a 52-week low amid global economic uncertainties and continuous FII outflows. In the last six months, RIL shares have lost 23% of their value. Analysts cite heavy FII selling and economic slowdowns as major concerns.
India, EU to firm up cooperation in AI, EVs, semiconductors & telecom
India and the European Union are set to collaborate on AI, electric vehicles, semiconductors, and telecoms, emphasizing secure connectivity. They aim to harmonize EV charging standards and focus on battery recycling research, with a budget of E 60 million. High-level meetings will also address market access commitments.
Assam govt moots proposal to study feasibility of bringing optical fibre from Bay of Bengal through Brahmaputra
Assam's government proposes studying the feasibility of laying optical fibre from the Bay of Bengal via the Brahmaputra to boost digital connectivity. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma aims to transform Assam into a digital powerhouse, supported by the Centre and major companies. This effort includes connecting villages with optical fibre and expanding IT and telecom services.
Reliance to invest Rs 50,000 cr in Assam over next 5 years: Mukesh Ambani
Reliance Industries plans to invest ₹50,000 crore in Assam over the next five years, focusing on technology and AI readiness, chairman Mukesh Ambani announced at the 'Advantage Assam' summit. This follows an initial ₹5,000 crore commitment in 2018, which has since exceeded ₹12,000 crore. The investment will target green and nuclear energy, supply chains, and retail expansion.
Assam to get four hyperscale data centres, which will be Asia's largest: Scindia
Addressing a technical session at the Advantage Assam business summit, he said Rs 400 crore is being invested in the state to strengthen its telecom and IT infrastructure.
As US exits foreign aid, who will fill the gap?
With the U.S. significantly reducing its $12 billion global health aid, an urgent question arises: who will fill this gap? China, the Gates Foundation, and the World Bank are potential players, yet none can fully match the U.S. contribution. African countries, especially those reliant on U.S. aid, face severe challenges, prompting discussions for alternative solutions and new global alignments.
With stagnant exports, India-Japan trade imbalance an area of concern: Piyush Goyal
Piyush Goyal urged Japanese companies to focus more on producing goods and services in India that can be supplied to Japan.
Appeal against acquittal of A Raja, others in 2G case 'ripe' for hearing: CBI to Delhi HC
The CBI has informed the Delhi High Court that its appeal against the acquittal of former telecom minister A Raja and others in the 2G spectrum allocation case is ready for hearing. The case, originally dismissed in 2017, involved significant allegations of corruption and financial losses. The hearing is scheduled for March 18.
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