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The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released recommendations on sharing telecom infrastructure and spectrum. This move aims to optimise resource utilisation and potentially lower costs for service providers.

Some of the highlights of the recommendations include infrastructure sharing, improved connectivity in remote areas, spectrum sharing and spectrum leasing.


“The implementation of the recommendations on telecommunication infrastructure sharing will help telecom service providers in greater cost efficiencies and improved time to market. The recommendations on mandatory sharing of passive infrastructure laid under the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) projects are aimed at extending the benefits of  telecommunication coverage in underserved areas to more than one telecom service providers through effective utilization of Government funded infrastructure,” TRAI said in a press statement. 


Based on the comments and counter comments received from stakeholders, and on its own analysis, TRAI has finalized the following reccomedations-

1. Telecommunication service licensees should be allowed to share the  passive infrastructure such as building, tower, electrical equipment  including battery and power plant, dark fiber, duct space, Right of way, etc. owned, established, and operated by them under the  respective licenses with all types of telecommunication service  licensees.  


2. Telecommunication service licensees should be allowed to share all  types of active infrastructure elements owned, established, and  operated by them under respective licenses with all types of telecommunication service licensees as per the scope of their services. 
 

3. In the future projects of Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF)  under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 (or Digital Bharat Nidhi under the Telecommunications Act, 2023), DoT should include a provision in the agreement with the Universal Service Provider (USP) that the USP shall not refuse to share the passive infrastructure laid under the  project to at least two other telecom service providers on a  transparent and non-discriminatory basis.  


4. In the already assigned projects of USOF, DoT should explore the  feasibility of issuing instructions to such USPs that the USP shall not refuse to share the passive infrastructure laid under the project with at least two other telecom service providers on a transparent and non-discriminatory basis.  



5. In the interest of consumers, a telecom service provider, which has  built mobile network infrastructure in the remote and far-flung areas  of the country with full or partial funding from the Government under  USOF (or Digital Bharat Nidhi), should be mandated to allow roaming  to other TSPs on its network in such remote and far-flung areas initially for a period of three years. 



6.Inter-band access spectrum sharing between access service providers (which may be implemented either by way of pooling of access spectrum held by the participating access providers in different frequency bands through common radio access networks, or by way of allowing the partnering access service providers to use the radio access networks of each other operating in the shared requency band(s)) in an ISA should be permitted. 



7. DoT should explore the possibility of implementing authorized shared  access (ASA) technique-based spectrum sharing in India, under  which, the spectrum assigned to Government agencies or other  entities (non-TSPs) in the globally harmonized spectrum bands for IMT services, can be assigned to access service providers as secondary users.

 

8. A field trial of ASA technique-based spectrum sharing between the willing access service providers should be conducted under the supervision of DoT. 



9. The leasing of access spectrum should be permitted among access service providers. 




TRAI releases new recommendations: Infrastructure, spectrum sharing to boost connectivity, lower costs

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released its recommendations on ‘Encouraging Innovative Technologies, Services, Use Cases, and Business Models through Regulatory Sandbox in Digital Communication Sector’.

 
“In view of new technological developments in 5G/6G, machine to machine communications, artificial intelligence, the internet of things, virtual reality, and others, there is a need to provide an environment in which new technologies, services, use cases and business models can be tested in live networks, or existing functions or processes can be refined,” said TRAI in a press statement announcing the release of recommendations. 


Explaining how it works, the recommendation said, “Regulatory Sandbox (RS) makes real-time but regulated access to telecom network and customer resources, something that is not possible in conventional methods of lab testing or pilots. Specific and generic exemptions in regulations, valid only for RS testing, are granted for testing of new ideas.”


According to TRAI, regulatory bodies in many countries have established such sandbox frameworks. Providing such a framework for live testing in India will encourage more entrepreneurs to develop solutions for the digital communication industry of the country as well as the world.


Based on the reference received from DoT, stakeholder feedback, and in line with the definition of Regulatory Sandbox as provided in the Telecommunication Act' 2023, which emphasize on testing of new products, services, processes, and business models in live testing environment on a limited set of users for a specified period of time after obtaining certain regulatory relaxations, the Authority has finalised its recommendations.


The recommendations highlight all the relevant components in detail and offer a comprehensive framework for conducting Sandbox testing for the Digital Communication sector. As part of the recommendations, the Authority has outlined the objective and boundaries of the RS framework. 


The recommended RS framework for Digital Communication sector details the qualification to take part in the RS testing, essential requirements that participants must meet, supporting paperwork needed to demonstrate eligibility, the application, evaluation & approval procedure, the authority to waive or amend rules, validity period, procedures for authorisation revocation, and the reporting requirements.


“Indian companies or partnership firms, limited liability partnerships or a research institute who have done limited prior testing of their products/services/applications and meet all conditions mentioned in the framework can apply for regulatory sandbox testing. As the RS testing will be carried out in live networks on certain set of users, the framework has kept the security of networks and protection of customers in mind. Accordingly, it has been provided in the RS framework that the applicants will have to, inter-alia, provide details of regulatory exemptions sought, risk mitigation safeguards proposed, consumer protection mechanism suggested, and a well-defined exit strategy as part of their application,” said the recommendations. 


The recommended Regulatory Sandbox framework is expected to give the Digital Communication industry's startup ecosystem access to real network environments and other data of telecom network to help test the reliability of new applications before bringing them to market. 



The framework provides for using cross-sector cooperation in carrying out RS testing with the help of other ministries and agencies. By providing a RS framework that enable various digital communication sector entities to work together in a structured manner, these recommendations are expected to synergize the efforts of innovators, startups, telecommunications companies, government agencies, and regulators to boost innovation and start-up eco system.

TRAI releases recommendations on regulatory sandbox for innovation in digital communication

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), has released a consultation paper seeking public feedback on the auction of new spectrum bands for mobile services. These bands include 37-37.5 GHz, 37.5-40 GHz, and 42.5-43.5 GHz.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had previously requested TRAI's recommendations on auctioning these bands along with existing bands like 600 MHz and 26 GHz. However, TRAI responded by reiterating its previous recommendations on existing bands and initiating a separate consultation process for the new ones.


Stakeholders, including telecom companies and industry associations, can submit written comments on the consultation paper by May 2nd, 2024, followed by counter-comments by May 16th, 2024.


This feedback will help TRAI formulate recommendations on factors like reserve price, band plan, quantum of spectrum to be auctioned, block size, and other auction conditions specific to these new bands.


These bands hold the potential to significantly improve mobile data speeds and network capacity, paving the way for advanced 5G services and future technological advancements.

TRAI seeks public input on auctioning new spectrum bands for mobile services

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has granted an extension for the submission of comments on its Consultation Paper titled ‘Digital Inclusion in the Era of Emerging Technologies.’


Originally set for December 15, 2023, stakeholders now have until December 29, 2023, to submit their comments and until January 12, 2024, for counter comments. TRAI decided on the extension in response to requests from stakeholders, taking into account multiple ongoing consultations.

The notice however said that any further extension requests will not be considered.

The consultation paper aims to explore and address the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapid advancement of emerging technologies, with a focus on ensuring inclusivity for all segments of society and industries particularly Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

In the consultation paper, TRAI has analysed various gaps in digital inclusion present in the country such as the mobile internet usage gap, rural urban internet penetration disparities, gender gaps in internet access, etc. as well as gaps identified from some global indices. “Proactively prioritising inclusion can create an ecosystem that benefits every individual, fostering a more equitable and accessible digital economy,” said the paper.


TRAI extends deadline for comments on digital inclusion consultation paper

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has extended the deadline for stakeholders to submit comments on the "Digital Transformation through 5G Ecosystem" Consultation Paper. 

Originally set for October 30 and November 13, the new dates are December 26 for written comments and January 8 for counter-comments. This extension follows requests from industry associations citing challenges in gathering essential information and emphasising the paper's significance in addressing policy challenges and shaping the framework for adopting new technologies.

TRAI initiated a suo-motu consultation paper on September 29, due to the recent launch of 5G services in India, with telecom service providers rapidly expanding the network. The government's efforts in infrastructure development and R&D, coupled with TRAI's recommendations, highlight the need for a robust policy framework. Beyond infrastructure, the focus is on developing use cases for widespread 5G adoption, integrating AI, XR, and IoT, said the paper.

Effective collaboration among TSPs, OEMs, infrastructure providers, and the government is crucial for consumer adoption and market readiness. Key challenges include infrastructure upgrades, fiberisation, and network densification, requiring dedicated R&D, India-specific use cases, enterprise penetration, device affordability, and consumer adoption for successful 5G implementation.


TRAI extends deadline for comments on 5G consultation paper

In a bid to fight the issue of spam through Unsolicited Commercial Communications (UCC), the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has introduced some new protocols.

The regulatory body has taken various measures to curb UCC in the recent past. They issued a direction dated 02.06.2023 under TCCCPR-2018 to all the Access Providers to develop and deploy the Digital Consent Acquisition (DCA) facility for creating a unified platform and process to register customers' consent digitally across all Access Service Providers and Principal Entities (PE).

Under the prevailing system, consent is managed independently by various PEs, making it challenging for Access Providers to verify the authenticity of consents. The DCA process is designed to address this by allowing the seeking, maintenance, and revocation of consents as outlined in TCCCPR-2018. The collected consent data will be shared on a Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) Platform established for Commercial Communications, facilitating scrutiny by all Access Providers.

To streamline the process, a common short code '127xxx' will be used for sending consent-seeking messages. These messages will clearly state the purpose, scope of consent, and the Principal Entity/Brand name. Only whitelisted URLs, APKs, OTT links, Call Back numbers, etc., will be permitted in these messages. The confirmation messages will include information on revoking consent, and Access Providers will develop an SMS/Online facility for customers to register their unwillingness to receive consent-seeking messages from any Principal Entity.


With the implementation of DCA, existing consents acquired through alternative means will become null and void. Principal Entities are urged to promptly take the necessary steps to onboard the DCA system within the prescribed timelines outlined in the directive dated 02.06.2023.






TRAI to implement digital consent acquisition system to curb spam in commercial communications

In an ongoing process, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has announced the third extension for stakeholders to submit comments on the 'Review of Regulatory Framework for Broadcasting and Cable Services' consultation paper.

Initially released on August 8, 2023, TRAI had set the original deadline for receiving comments on September 5, with counter-comments due by September 19. Following stakeholder requests, these dates were first moved to September 19 and October 3, then further extended to October 3 and October 17. Now, TRAI has decided on another extension, pushing the final deadlines to October 10 for comments and October 25 for counter-comments.

TRAI emphasizes that no additional requests for time extensions will be entertained, as stated in their official notification. The consultation paper addresses key issues related to tariff structures, interconnection, and the quality of service within the broadcasting and cable services sector. These concerns were identified by the stakeholders' committee and suggested by others within the industry.

TRAI grants third extension for stakeholder comments on broadcasting and cable services

In a bid to identify policy challenges and propose an effective policy framework for the swift adoption and optimal utilization of new technologies, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a consultation paper on digital transformation through the 5G ecosystem.

TRAI initiated a suo-motu consultation paper on September 29, due to the recent launch of 5G services in India, with telecom service providers rapidly expanding the network. The government's efforts in infrastructure development and R&D, coupled with TRAI's recommendations, highlight the need for a robust policy framework. 
Beyond infrastructure, the focus is on developing use cases for widespread 5G adoption, integrating AI, XR, and IoT.

Effective collaboration among TSPs, OEMs, infrastructure providers, and the government is crucial for consumer adoption and market readiness. Key challenges include infrastructure upgrades, fiberisation, and network densification, requiring dedicated R&D, India-specific use cases, enterprise penetration, device affordability, and consumer adoption for successful 5G implementation.

Written comments on the issues for consultation are invited from the stakeholders by October 30, 2023 and counter-comments, if any, by November 13, 2023.


TRAI issues consultation paper on digital transformation through the 5G ecosystem

In response to recent debates triggered by TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) consultations on regulating app-layer services and the subsequent push by private telecom companies to make Over-The-Top (OTT) services pay a fair share for accessing their infrastructure, Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, took a firm stance in favor of net neutrality.

He took to social media and put up a post asserting India's status as one of the first countries to ensure net neutrality.

“Net Neutrality in India was a hard fought battle for those who remember - which started during UPA government and peaked in 2015/2016. I led an effort where over 5 lac Indians wrote to TRAI opposing efforts of some telcos to cabelize the internet and double dip/charge. PM Narendra Modi Ji’s vision made India one of the first countries in the world to ensure #NetNeutrality and push back against telcos wanting to be gatekeepers of the Internet. That decision of the PM was an important factor in India becoming a world-leading innovation economy with this vibrant global standard startup ecosystem that we see today,” read his tweet.

But startups aren’t happy about the status of net neutrality. A few days back, Indian startup entrepreneurs also wrote an open letter to the prime minister highlighting their concerns on net neutrality.

“Neutrality is already being violated. Some telecom companies have shown scant respect for the issues presently under consideration by TRAI. In legally questionable moves, they have rolled out various services which violate network neutrality, apparently confident that they can do so without repercussions. This is not only an affront to the Internet users in India but also to the regulatory powers of the TRAI, the letter said.

They requested TRAI to issue an interim order or regulation preventing ongoing network neutrality violations by telecom service providers in the absence of formal regulations on net neutrality.

Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar defends net neutrality amidst telco push for OTT charges

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has moved forward to improve digital connectivity in buildings and areas by putting together a consultation paper titled 'Regulation on Rating Framework for Digital Connectivity in Buildings or Areas.' The draft regulation for the implementation of the rating framework for digital connectivity is a significant step towards improving the quality of digital connectivity for consumers across the country.

“DCI (Digital Connectivity Infrastructure) should be made an essential component of the building development plans similar to other utilities like water supply, electrical services, etc,” said the draft recommendations.

This initiative aligns with international practices and frameworks like GRIHA or Credit Rating in India. 
As per the consultation paper, while significant improvements have been made in telecom service coverage outdoors, there is still gap in meeting the quality of service demands indoors, both in residential and commercial areas. TRAI initiative is a step taken towards addressing this gap. 

The consultation paper aims to establish a regulatory framework for implementing a rating system that enhances digital connectivity within buildings and areas, ensuring a seamless consumer experience. The framework will not only meet current consumer expectations but also remain adaptable for future technological advancements and changing user demands.

“These recommendations will provide for introduction of Rating of Buildings framework to ensure good digital connectivity experience to the consumers through a collaborative and self-sustainable approach,” said the paper.

The paper has thirty-nine recommendations listed in it. Some of them are amendment of Model Building Bye-Laws (MBBL) and National Building Code of India (NBC) to incorporate necessary provisions on DCI, making DCI an essential component of the building development plans, on the line of water supply, electrical services, gas supply, fire protection and fire safety requirements, tasking the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to review existing standards and procedures of DCI for buildings and others. 
