DoT Engages Stakeholders in Second Round of Advisory Committee Meetings

Delhi:  The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the leadership of Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya Scindia, along with Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Minister of State for Communications, convened the second round of meetings with the recently constituted Stakeholders Advisory Committees (SACs). These meetings included discussions with SACs on Satellite Communication and Internet Service Providers & Infrastructure Providers.

Yesterday’s meeting of the SAC on Internet Service Providers & Infrastructure Providers focused on current regulatory provisions and the seamless adoption and facilitation of Right of Way (RoW) for a digitally connected India. This initiative is crucial for engaging industry leaders in expanding and shaping the future of India’s telecommunication ecosystem.

The advisory committee commended the recent progress in RoW processes but highlighted the need for integrated governance and enhanced cooperation from state governments and local municipal bodies. Secretary (Telecom) assured attendees that the new rules under the New Telecom Act are designed to address many of the issues raised. Minister Scindia encouraged industry stakeholders to actively participate by providing their feedback on the RoW rules.

In the meeting of the Advisory Committee on Satellite Communication, members presented their views on Indian space policy, spectrum allocation, and spectrum usage charges (SUC). They suggested various measures to advance India’s position as a global hub for satellite communication. The committee commended the Ministry for incorporating key provisions in the New Telecom Act, which are set to modernize India’s telecommunications framework by enabling more flexible, liberalized, and technologically neutral spectrum utilization. These changes are expected to significantly benefit the advancement and efficiency of satellite communication services.

The DoT’s engagement with these advisory committees reflects its commitment to fostering an inclusive policy-making process that integrates industry expertise and addresses the dynamic needs of India’s telecommunication sector. This collaborative approach is poised to drive significant advancements in both internet service provision and satellite communication, ensuring a robust and future-ready telecommunication infrastructure for the nation.