Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea Raise Concerns Over TRAI’s New Service Authorisation Framework; Check Details
The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) and major telecom operators like Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone-Idea express concerns over TRAI's new framework.
New Delhi, October 2: Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has reportedly expressed concerns over TRAI's new service authorisation framework. Major telecom operators, including Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi), have reportedly raised several issues regarding the recent recommendations by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). These telecom companies believe that the proposed changes may disrupt the telecom sector.
The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) is the apex telecom companies association in India. The association represents telecom companies like Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi). As per a report of Times of India, Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea believe that the proposed changes from TRAI could harm the industry's overall growth and hinder further investments. Apple Faces Backlash As X User Hints iPhone’s Simplicity Is Lost, Says, ‘Apple Has Ruined the iPhone’.
These companies are concerned that the new rules may lead to higher operational costs and complexity. Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea reportedly argue that the new framework could negatively affect industry growth and investment. COAI has been pushing for changes like lowering license fees, eliminating the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) levy, and getting rid of performance bank guarantees. They have reportedly urged the government to address these issues to create a strong and healthy environment for the telecom sector.
Contractual Aspects of Telecom Licenses and Exclusion of OTT Services
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), which represents the government, and the telecom operator are the two signatories of the same. COAI highlights the need for the contractual nature of existing telecom licenses. It may help to provide clear rules and safeguards for long-term investors. It can help to keep the contracts consistent for clear regulations and protect investors who are willing to invest in the industry for the long term. Microsoft Ends HoloLens 2 Production, Discontinues MR Headset; Know Why.
The association is also worried about the fact that over-the-top (OTT) communication services are not included in the new regulations. The exclusion could create an unfair situation because telecom service providers (TSPs) still have to deal with compliance and security requirements. TSPs may find themselves at a disadvantage for not including OTT services in the same framework.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 02, 2024 04:01 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).