TRAI Rejects Several DoT Requests On Satcom Authorisation Regime

SUMMARY

DoT requested the telecom regulator to clarify and provide additional information on specific points within the service authorisation framework recommendations

TRAI reiterated that satellite-based service authorisation operates with a distinct service and technology, should remain separate

TRAI also recommended a separate service authorisation with a reasonably light financial obligation to attract enterprises

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has reportedly rejected several requests by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) that sought some changes to the recommendations on the authorisation regime.

DoT requested the telecom regulator to clarify and provide additional information on specific points within the service authorisation framework recommendations, earlier this month.

As per an ET report, the telecom regulator reiterated that satellite-based service authorisation, operating with a distinct service and technology, should remain separate and not be offered as a service under the main authorisation as asked by DoT.

“Considering the prima facie view of DoT, if the government, hypothetically, does not accept the recommendations of Trai to introduce satellite-based telecommunication service authorisation…the business entities intending to provide GMPCS service in India may find it financially unviable to operate as they will have no option other than obtaining unified service authorisation,” the report said, citing TRAI’s response.

Based on the report, TRAI also recommended a separate service authorisation with a reasonably light financial obligation to attract enterprises in entering the satellite-based telecommunication services segment.

The development notably comes following DoT accepting most of the regulator’s recommendations on the service authorisation framework.

In October last year, TRAI released a consultation paper on the framework for service authorisations for provision of broadcasting services under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

Prior to that, in September, the regulator had issued recommendations to streamline the licensing framework under the new Telecom Act.

Meanwhile, to streamline online content, DoT asked all the social media platforms, including Meta, Instagram, Google and X, earlier this month, to remove specific content or applications that facilitate users in committing offences under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.