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TRAI suggests simplifying processes for broadcast, cable-related businesses
MUMBAI: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), in its bid to ease business norms relating to the broadcast and cable sector, has urged the government to simplify various licensing and clearance processes, putting time limits in some cases.
The TRAI has also said that the satellite spectrum allocation process undertaken by various government agencies, such as the WPC in the telecom ministry and the ISRO/Department of Space, should be carried out throughout the year instead of “intermittent” opening of such processes.
Some of the recommendations that have been suggested in its latest ‘Ease of doing Business in Broadcasting Sector’ paper are:
http://www.indiantelevision.com/regulators/trai/trai-extends-dates-for-comments-on-uplinking/downlinking-consultation-paper-180116
http://www.indiantelevision.com/regulators/trai/trai-paper-seeks-to-streamline-uplinking-downlinking-norms-171219
http://www.indiantelevision.com/regulators/trai/trai-releases-paper-on-national-telecom-policy-2018-180103
– The process of granting permission/licence/registration for broadcasting services should be streamlined by removing redundant processes, re-engineering necessary processes and making them efficient using ICT.
– An integrated portal to be set up by the government for broadcasters, teleport operators and TV channel distributors for filing, processing, tracking applications, payments, frequency assignments, endorsements, renewals etc.
– Security clearances to be done within 60 days.
– Setting up a system of self declaration.
– Total time (including all kinds of ministerial clearances) to not exceed six months for granting licences or permissions.
– Simpler process for logo, name, format and language change.
– Create a centre for excellence for broadcasters.
The TRAI says that the Indian broadcasting sector presents a vibrant picture but it has ‘immense potential to move on to a higher trajectory of growth by removing procedural bottlenecks and making business propositions more attractive.’ It states that checks must be done from time to time to ensure procedures are up to date or removed if no longer needed.
A consultation paper was issued last year after which an open house was conducted with stakeholders on the topic of ease of doing business.
Also Read:
TRAI extends dates for comments on uplinking/downlinking consultation paper
Trai paper seeks to streamline uplinking, downlinking norms
TRAI releases paper on National Telecom Policy 2018
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.
