Telecom Policy
Trai imposes penalty worth Rs 150 cr on telecom operators for failure to curb spam calls, messages
Telecom regulator Trai has imposed a Rs 150 crore penalty on operators for failing to curb spam calls and messages, a move challenged by the companies. The financial disincentives are levied for wrong closure of customer complaints and inaction against spammers' telecom connections, with Trai disconnecting over 21 lakh spammers last year.
Centre rolls out spectrum plan for 5G, 6G networks
India's new spectrum plan earmarks 700MHz in the 6GHz band for advanced mobile networks. This forward-looking blueprint also allocates crucial bands for satellite services. Additional spectrum is designated for in-flight and maritime connectivity. Emerging technologies like vehicle-to-everything communication will also benefit. This policy ensures India is ready for future technological advancements in telecommunications.
Concern over misuse extent even as WhatsApp bans 1 cr numbers a month
The Indian government is concerned about the widespread misuse of Indian mobile numbers on platforms like WhatsApp, with millions of accounts banned monthly for violations. Officials are discussing with WhatsApp how to curb this, as the platform's refusal to share banned numbers hinders efforts to combat cyber fraud and scams.
RCS messaging caught in regulatory gray area after SIM verification order
India's SIM binding mandate has created regulatory ambiguity for Rich Communication Services (RCS). Experts highlight RCS's dual nature, usable without a SIM like WhatsApp but adopted by telcos with Google. This situation necessitates clear policy decisions on classifying RCS to ensure industry certainty and parity with other messaging channels.
Insurance companies must switch to 1600-series numbers by Feb 15: Trai
All entities regulated by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India must use the designated numbering series for customer service and transaction-related calls, Trai said in a direction issued on Tuesday. The deadline was set in consultation with the insurance regulator.
TRAI fixes February 15 deadline for 1600-series adoption by IRDAI-regulated entities for service calls
Telecom regulator TRAI has set a deadline of February 15, 2026. Insurance companies regulated by IRDAI must use special '1600' series phone numbers for customer calls. This move aims to boost consumer trust and combat fraud. It will help people easily identify legitimate calls from financial institutions. This initiative follows similar mandates for banks and other financial bodies.
Reliance Jio unveils 'Happy New Year 2026' recharge plans with unlimited 5G and OTT benefits
Reliance Jio unveils its Happy New Year 2026 recharge plans. These offers include annual and monthly options with unlimited 5G data. Users also receive popular OTT subscriptions and a limited-period Google Gemini Pro offer. A Flexi Pack provides data and customized entertainment bundles. These plans target users seeking high data, entertainment, and AI services.
Trai moots up to 55% cut in backhaul spectrum fees to reduce telcos' cost
Telecom operators may soon see significant cost reductions. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has recommended slashing backhaul spectrum prices by up to 55%. This move aims to improve service quality and boost the use of backhaul carriers. The regulator is shifting to a uniform rate for spectrum pricing. This change will offer substantial financial relief to all telecom companies.
Government proposes new spectrum sharing rule for telcos under new rules
As per the illustration given in the latest draft rule, a service provider holding frequencies in a different band can share them with other operators having spectrum in a separate band but within the same category and telecom circle.
Government removes the mandate for Sanchar Saathi
The government has reversed its decision to make the Sanchar Saathi cyber safety app a mandatory pre-installation on all new smartphones sold in India. This move follows strong opposition from technology and handset manufacturers. The app, designed to combat fraud and unsolicited calls, has seen significant user adoption.
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Govt removes mandatory pre-installation of Sanchar Saathi App amid Oppn's 'snooping' claims
The Centre has withdrawn its directive mandating the pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi cyber safety app on smartphones following privacy concerns raised by the Opposition. The government stated the app is solely for cyber protection and users retain full control, emphasizing its role in citizen participation against digital fraud.
‘You can delete Sanchar Saathi as per your wish’: Scindia on govt’s tracking app after ‘snooping’ row
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia defended the Sanchar Saathi app against surveillance allegations, emphasising its consumer safety benefits. He highlighted its role in disconnecting fraudulent mobile connections and tracing stolen phones, stating the app empowers users and is optional. The minister urged the public to disregard misconceptions about the app, which is part of the government's consumer-protection strategy.
DoT mandates SIM binding for WhatsApp, Telegram and other OTT apps to check online fraud
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), which issued the directions on November 28, asked the OTT firms to implement SIM binding within 90 days. Failure on the part of the OTT firms to implement the mandated SIM binding would attract penal provisions.
Live content soon on Rs 2k phones with no data pack as D2M tech paves way
Mobile users in India will soon enjoy live sports, movies, and web series on their phones without needing an internet connection. New devices from Lava and HMD will support this direct-to-mobile technology. Even smartphone owners can access content using an affordable dongle. Initially, Prasar Bharti content will be available. This innovation promises widespread access to entertainment.
DoT withdraws duplicate notification, amended cyber security rules to remain in force
The Telecom Department has made a pivotal move by pulling back on the recently updated telecom cybersecurity regulations. The original Telecommunication Cyber Security Amendment Rules of 2025 still stand strong, aimed at addressing the pitfalls in digital services and curbing fraudulent actions in telecom.
A SIM in your name could land you in court, even if you never used it: DoT warns
SIM card misuse: The Department of Telecom has warned mobile subscribers of potential liability if SIM cards in their name are misused for cyber fraud. Citizens are urged to avoid tampered IMEI devices and fraudulent SIM procurement, as legal consequences, including imprisonment and hefty fines, are now in effect under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
