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TRAI chief R S Sharma defends differential pricing regulation
NEW DELHI: While defending the decision on differential pricing for data services from telecom companies, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) chairman R S Sharma categorically stated that with the digital landscape changing constantly, the policy would be reviewed every two years.
Speaking at the 10th India Digital Summit on the theme ‘Stand Up Start Up’ organised by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), Sharma stressed the necessity of augmenting telecom and digital infrastructure to meet the growing demand of a truly digital India.
On connectivity, he said drive tests are done regularly by TRAI. “Telecom companies have started raising objections pertaining to consulting on the methods TRAI is using. We have started that process also. So this time when we did the test, we have also taken their suggestions into account,” he said.
“Whatever drive tests we have done, have been very objective. This was done in a transparent manner and if there are any more suggestions for transparency, we are certainly ready to look at it. But by simply saying that what you have done is not really correct is not the right approach,” Sharma voiced.
Adding that the next test drive is likely to be in April, Sharma said that connectivity was bound to improve with release of more spectrum.
“Seamless connectivity is the essence of true digitisation. With Digital Locker; e-Sign and Aadhar, India is the only country in the world to have such advanced technology. India is also the only country to have the technicality of checking identity of a person digitally through Aadhar,” he said.
Earlier, IAMAI chairman Kunal Shah, who is the founder & CEO of FreeCharge, said in his inaugural address that continuous innovation is the key for staying relevant and that the young start-ups should focus on reinventing rather than focusing on raising funds.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
