TRAI to Prioritize Satellite Spectrum Pricing Before OTT Regulation

TRAI will prioritize satellite spectrum pricing before addressing regulations for over-the-top (OTT) apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. A consultation paper on satellite spectrum pricing will be issued soon. The new framework simplifies telecom service provisions, reducing costs and authorizations needed under the Telecommunications Act 2023.

Telecom regulator TRAI will expedite the process for satellite spectrum pricing before tackling regulation for over-the-top (OTT) apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Google Meet, the TRAI chairman announced on Wednesday. A consultation paper on pricing for satellite spectrum will be issued shortly, according to Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Chairman AK Lahoti.

'OTT was not included in this paper (Service Authorisation Framework under the Telecommunications Act 2023). It is being addressed separately. Currently, we have to prioritize spectrum pricing,' Lahoti emphasized.

TRAI is also determining whether OTT apps should be regulated under the Telecommunications Act 2023. Telecom operators have raised concerns about TRAI's recent recommendation for a new regime that proposes telecom services can be provided using single authorization instead of licenses, which was the standard under the previous framework.

Lahoti clarified that TRAI has only recommended the framework that should be implemented under the Telecommunications Act 2023 for allowing provisioning of services. 'Our entire team was engaged in this extensive task of recommending a new framework. We now shift our focus to spectrum pricing recommendations,' Lahoti added.

On the timeline for satellite communication spectrum pricing recommendations, Lahoti said that a consultation would be initiated within the next few days. TRAI Principal Advisor SB Singh explained that the new framework simplifies service provision rules and reduces costs.

Service providers will now only need one authorization for services and will comply only with requirements relevant to their offerings. On September 18, the regulator recommended three broad categories of telecommunication service authorizations: main, auxiliary, and captive service authorizations.

The new framework also introduces 'Unified Service Authorization' aimed at achieving 'One Nation - One Authorization' across services and service areas, as explained in TRAI's recommendations on the 'Framework for Service Authorizations to be Granted Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023'.

TRAI has advised the government to grant service authorization under the new Telecommunications Act, instead of entering agreements with entities. The regulator has also reduced the entry fee for service authorizations.

'There is no specified timeline for service providers to switch to the new framework. It is voluntary. They can continue providing services under their existing licenses,' said Lahoti.

(With inputs from agencies.)