The communications ministry is going to set up a working groups to deliberate on the new telecom policy which is expected in 2018.
What to expect from NTP-2018?
The advent of high-speed data services and enhanced user expectation of getting real time on-demand band-width to run live applications has set the tone for new policy.
It will be application driven as compared to connectivity driven at present.
The focus will be on the end users and newer opportunities for expanding the availability of telecom services.
Impetus for the development of next-generation technologies like 5G, Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and seamless connectivity is envisioned.
It has been proposed to align the new policy with various e-governance initiatives like Digital India, Internet for all, smart cities and and intelligent transportation systems, along with enhancing web based education & financial services.
Facilitating more investments in the sector is being considered as a priority.
The establishment of one pan-Indian telecom circle by integrating the various present regional circles is being considered.
Skills development and security archetecture in the sector are being cosiderd.
The ministry has promised “widest possible public consultation” involving the industry, local stakeholders & government regulators for finalising the contours of the NTP.
What is the current scenario in the industry?
India is the second largest telecom market in the world with over one billion mobile subscribers.
FDI equity inflow in the sector has been drastically increasing year on.
However, the sector is now reeling under a staggering Rs 4.6 lakh crore of debt.
The pressure on revenue and profitability due to intense competition in the market, and disruptive voice and data offerings of the newcomer ‘Reliance Jio’ has hit the industry hard.
An inter-ministerial group has been constituted to suggest ways to ease the industry’s financial stress.
The Telecom department is also considering setting up telecom Computer Emergency Response Team-CERT to enhance cyber & telecom security.
Internet’s contribution to India’s GDP at about 5.6% in 2015-16 and is estimated to grow to nearly 16% of the country’s GDP by 2020.
