The Centre has notified a new authorisation framework for telecom services under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, replacing the licensing regime.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has brought into force key provisions of Section 3 of the Telecommunications Act and notified rules governing the provision of principal telecom services, miscellaneous telecom services, and captive telecom services.
Telecom operators such as Airtel, Jio and Vi will be able to migrate to the new regime, which outlines how companies will offer wireline and wireless access services.
The government has also notified DoT's Telecom e-Services Portal as the official portal through which the new authorisation framework will be implemented digitally.
The framework introduces enhanced anti-fraud obligations, including measures aimed at detecting spoofing and fraudulent telecom activity.
The rules require data, logs and information associated with telecom networks to be stored within India, strengthening data localisation requirements.
The government has notified authorisation rules for miscellaneous telecom services and captive telecom services, and migration rules for entities transitioning from the existing licensing regime.
