News Headline
TRAI overhauls network authorisations, boosting structure and revenue in telecom
MUMBAI: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has shaken up the telecom sector with fresh recommendations that redefine network authorisations under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. The much-anticipated Recommendations on the Terms and Conditions of Network Authorisations were unveiled on 17 February 2025, setting the stage for a more structured and revenue-driven industry.
This isn’t just a policy tweak—it’s a game-changer. With a range of new authorisation categories and a pricing framework that demands commitment, TRAI is making it clear that the industry’s future lies in structured, competitive, and investment-heavy territory. From satellite gateways to cloud-hosted telecom networks, the revised framework is a playbook for businesses looking to thrive in India’s fast-evolving telecom landscape.
Key among the updates is the introduction of a mix of infrastructure and service provider authorisations, each carrying its own set of fees. Notably, the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) Provider authorisation comes with a whopping Rs 40,00,000 guarantee fee, ensuring only serious players enter the market. But it’s not all about higher costs—TRAI has focused on streamlining processes, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and fostering innovation while prioritising security.
Companies eyeing infrastructure investments—think dark fibres, towers, and ducts—will now need an Infrastructure Provider (IP) authorisation. Meanwhile, digital connectivity firms can explore the Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Provider (DCIP) authorisation, which encompasses everything from wireline access networks to expansive Wi-Fi systems.
One of the most forward-thinking recommendations includes enabling Cloud-hosted Telecom Networks (CTN), marking a significant step toward the sector’s cloud-powered future. TRAI has also planned for a smooth transition, allowing existing entities to voluntarily shift to the new framework under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, ensuring continuity without disruption.
While the fee hikes may raise eyebrows, TRAI’s ultimate goal is to fortify India’s telecom ecosystem, making it robust, competitive, and future-ready. By enhancing the ease of doing business, fostering investment, and securing the sector’s digital backbone, the regulatory body is charting a course for long-term industry growth.
For those keen to dive into the details, TRAI’s full set of recommendations is available on its website. Whether it’s satellites or fibre optics, India’s telecom landscape is gearing up for a more structured and lucrative future.
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.
