India modernises telecom rules: spectrum efficiency takes centre stage

iNDICA INFORMATION OFFICE

The Government of India on Friday, July 5, notified another set of sections of the Telecommunication Act, 2023, which came into effect with immediate effect.

The key aspect raised in the latest notification, the Ministry of Communications said, is the federal government’s focus on increasing the efficiency of radio spectrum utilisation through various measures such as re-allocation, sharing and spectrum trading.

The government has issued notification for enforcement of Sections 6-8, 48 and 59(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 with immediate effect. The salient features of the enforced sections include optimum utilization of spectrum.

“The Act provides a legal framework for the efficient use of scarce spectrum through processes such as re-allocation, sharing, trading, leasing and transfer of spectrum,” the ministry said.

It also enables flexible, liberalised and technology neutral use of spectrum, while giving the government the ability to establish an enforcement and monitoring mechanism.

The bill immediately prohibits the use of any equipment that blocks telecommunications communications unless authorized by the government.

The Telecommunication Bill, 2023 seeks to amend and consolidate the provisions relating to development, expansion and operation of telecommunication services and networks; allocation of spectrum; and related matters. “The Bill also seeks to repeal the existing legal frameworks like the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and the Indian Wireless Telegraph Act, 1933, in view of the significant technological advancements in the telecommunication sector,” the ministry added.