Vodafone, Jio To Deploy Blockchain Solutions To Curb Spam Calls

Now Vodafone and Jio users will get relief from spam calls and messages as both the companies begin to roll out blockchain-based solutions in partnership with Tanla Solutions and Tech Mahindra.

According to an ET report, the deployment of this is in compliance with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) regulations which will be put into effect from May end.

This development comes in after it was recently reported that Tech Mahindra launched its blockchain solution to protect over 300 Mn mobile subscribers from unsolicited commercial communication (UCC) also known as spam.

It designed the solution in compliance with TRAI regulations last year to help the telecom providers prevent unauthorised access of subscribers’ data.

Vodafone Idea which currently has 395 Mn users has signed a multi-year contract with Hyderabad-based Tanla Solutions to deploy the blockchain technology. The companies will also collaborate to build a regulatory sandbox and production platform.

Citing sources from Tanla, the report said that the deployment of the blockchain solution is ongoing. If successful, this technology will help in arresting spam and fraud-related commercial communications for Vodafone Idea subscribers. According to Tanla, it was also helping Airtel for deploying the technology.

According to industry experts, the telecom operators may also use the blockchain technology for mobile number portability, interconnect settlements, supply chain streamlining and content partner settlements.

India’s Bet On Blockchain Industry

Amid the debates about blockchain technology, India is now looking to implement it across various verticals. The initiatives come at a time when the World Economic Forum has predicted that blockchain could account for as much as 10% of global GDP by 2025.

As the digital payments’ space in India expected to reach $1 Tn by 2025, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is also looking to adopt new age technologies such as blockchain to make the digital payments easier and convenient.

Not only the central government but the state governments are also stepping up their blockchain game. Telangana state government has recently announced a draft blockchain policy to offer regulatory and policy support for blockchain startups based in Hyderabad.

According to the state’s new draft policy, blockchain companies will be able to avail land at a subsidised rate under the state’s industrial infrastructure corporation.

Recently it was reported that Agriculture research organisation, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) had joined hands with Eleven01 (blockchain platform) and KHETHINEXT (mobile-based agricultural solutions provider) to implement the deep technology for increasing productivity and incomes of the small farmers in India.