The Telecom Bill 2023 has been approved by the Lok Sabha, marking a significant development that could lead to major changes and a complete transformation of the telecom sector. This bill grants the government the authority to temporarily assume control of telecom services for national security purposes. Additionally, it introduces an alternative method for allocating satellite spectrum, moving away from the traditional auction process. Notably, the bill empowers the government to take over a telecom network during public emergencies or to ensure public safety. It also allows for the interception…

India is planning to revamp its long-standing telecommunications law through the introduction of a new bill, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims to attract more investors to the sector. According to an anonymous source familiar with the matter, the government is considering replacing licensing with “authorization,” which would provide greater adaptability to technological advancements. The proposed draft also contemplates a thorough overhaul of spectrum allocation rules to allow for resale, easy upgradeability, assignment, sharing, leasing and trading, the person said. In addition, frequencies for satellite services are not auctioned. The…

According to a senior industry official, telecom operators are urging the government to pass a bill, inspired by a proposal in the US Congress, which would require major internet applications to contribute towards infrastructure expenses. The aim is to reduce broadband costs for consumers. Sponsored by US Senators Markwayne Mullin, Mark Kelly and Mike Crapo, a bill in the US Congress last month aimed at lowering broadband costs for consumers proposed directing the telecommunications regulator Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to authorize social media platforms, streaming service applications and cloud computing.…