The Ministry of Communications announced telecom reforms at the World Telecom Standardization Assembly Delhi 2024 (WTSA 2024) and India Mobile Congress (IMC 2024).
Key Telecom Reforms:
Spectrum Regulatory Sandbox (SRS):
- This reform is aimed at simplifying research and development regulations to promote the exploration of spectrum bands and drive technological advancements.
- Wireless Test Zones (WiTe Zones): Established under SRS, these zones are dedicated to facilitating outdoor testing and are divided into urban and remote areas to aid in experimentation.
Abolition of Wireless Operating License:
- This significant change simplifies the licensing process, thereby saving service providers’ time and improving the ease of doing business.
- Previously, a separate Wireless Operating License was needed under section 4 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, for establishing, maintaining, or working telecommunications including radio equipment. This requirement has now been removed.
MoU with Ericsson for the “Ericsson Educate” program:
- This initiative offers approved courses to enhance digital skills in universities, especially those with established 5G case labs.
About World Telecom Standardization Assembly (WTSA):
- The WTSA is a crucial conference of the ITU Standardization Sector (ITU-T) and represents one of the three global conferences of the International Telecommunication Union, under the United Nations system.
- The assembly is held every four years and is responsible for deciding the working methods for ITU-T for the next study period.
- It leads to the formation of the Telecommunication Standardization Advisory Group (TSAG) and the ITU-T Study Groups, such as ITU-T Study Group 16, including the election of their management teams.
- The recommendations and resolutions passed at the WTSA are instrumental in shaping the future of ICT standardization.
- WTSA 2024: The latest session is scheduled to be held in New Delhi, India, highlighting the country’s growing influence in global telecom standards.
About India Mobile Congress (IMC):
- IMC stands as a premier digital technology forum in Asia, featuring an extensive technology exhibition.
- Vision: It is regarded as the leading platform for India’s startup and technology ecosystem, with a strong emphasis on innovation.
- The event is a collaborative effort between the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
- IMC 2024 Focus Areas: The forthcoming congress will concentrate on emerging and influential technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Quantum technology, Circular Economy, and advanced communication technologies like 5G, 6G, and IoT.
Ref:Source
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