The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recently taken a significant step towards strengthening the telecom ecosystem by releasing a Pre-Consultation Paper on the “Review of Existing TRAI Regulations on Interconnection Matters.” This initiative aims to gather valuable insights from stakeholders across the telecom sector to develop a more futuristic and robust regulatory framework for interconnection.
Interconnection is the backbone of the telecommunications industry. It ensures seamless communication between networks, enabling call routing, data exchange, and service interoperability. As the telecom landscape evolves with rapid technological advancements, increased data consumption, and the rise of new services like 5G, the existing interconnection regulations need to be revisited.
Recognizing the importance of inclusive policymaking, TRAI has invited all stakeholders—telecom service providers, industry associations, consumer groups, technology experts, and even the general public—to participate in this pre-consultation process.
Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their issues, concerns, and suggestions regarding the current interconnection regulations. This collaborative approach will help TRAI understand the diverse perspectives and challenges faced by different segments of the industry.
TRAI’s review seeks to address key issues that have emerged over time, such as:
- Evolving Technologies: How current regulations align with 4G, 5G, and beyond.
- Fair Competition: Ensuring that interconnection practices promote a level playing field among service providers.
- Cost Efficiency: Optimizing interconnection charges to reflect actual market dynamics.
- Consumer Experience: Improving service quality and reducing call drops or data interruptions.
Written comments on the Pre-Consultation Paper are invited from stakeholders by 16th April 2025. The comments may be sent, preferably in electronic form at adv-nsl1@trai.gov.in.
