Spectrum Allocation Rules: India to Ease Century-Old Telecom Laws to Attract Investors
India aims to reform its century-old telecommunications law by introducing a new bill as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks to make the sector investor friendly. The government is exploring abolishing the concept of licensing with “authorization,” said a person familiar with the matter, who requested not to be identified as the bill is before lawmakers. This is expected to give the government flexibility to cope with advances made in technology.
The proposed draft is also considering a major overhaul of spectrum allocation rules to allow resale, easy upgradability, surrender, sharing, leasing and trading, the person said.
In addition, spectrum for satellite services will not be auctioned. The proposed bill excludes email, internet-based communication, broadcasting, machine-to-machine communication and over-the-top services such as Netflix.
(PTI) The government's proposal in the Telecommunications Bill 2023 to allocate spectrum to satellite companies without auction, keep internet-based calling and messaging apps out of telecom rules, and measures to protect infrastructure is progressive and will boost digital connectivity, industry bodies said on Monday.
The bill introduced by Union Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw proposes allocation of spectrum to satellite communications companies through administrative method without the need for bidding in auction.
Indian Space Association Director General AK Bhatt said satellite-based communication networks have a huge potential that can transform India into a truly digital and developed economy.
"By allocating the spectrum by administrative method for satcom, India could align itself with international standards, promote global cooperation and also help drive innovation, create
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