New Delhi: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released a new consultation paper titled “Review of Existing TRAI Regulations on Interconnection Matters” to reassess and modernise India’s interconnection regulatory framework in line with the evolving telecommunications landscape.
The move is part of TRAI’s mandate under Section 11(1)(b) of the TRAI Act, 1997, which empowers the regulator to establish terms and conditions for interconnectivity between service providers, ensure technical compatibility and promote effective interconnection across networks.
- The Telecommunication Interconnection Regulations, 2018
- The Short Message Services (SMS) Termination Charges Regulations, 2013
- Intelligent Network Services in Multi-Operator and Multi-Network Scenario Regulations, 2006
- TRAI (Transit Charges for BSNL’s Cell One Terminating Traffic) Regulations, 2005
- The Telecommunication Interconnection Usage Charges Regulations, 2003
- The Telecommunication Interconnection (Reference Interconnect Offer) Regulations, 2002
- The Telecommunication Interconnection (Charges and Revenue Sharing) Regulations, 2001
- The Telecommunication Interconnection (Port Charges) Regulations, 2001
- The Register of Interconnect Agreements Regulations, 1999
These regulations have been instrumental in ensuring fair competition, non-discrimination, cost-based pricing, and seamless service delivery in a multi-operator environment. However, with the rise of next-generation networks, TRAI has emphasised the need for a forward-looking framework that can address technological shifts, including IP-based interconnection essential for 4G and 5G rollouts.
The review also focuses on interconnection issues relevant to emerging platforms such as satellite-based communication systems. It will examine the nature and placement of Points of Interconnect (PoIs), particularly for satellite gateways and their linkage with mobile and fixed-line networks.
Additionally, regulatory aspects such as interconnection charges, usage charges, and the Reference Interconnect Offer (RIO) framework will be reassessed to ensure efficiency and fairness across service providers.
TRAI had earlier issued a pre-consultation paper on 3 April this year to seek stakeholder inputs. Based on the feedback and further analysis, the new consultation paper has been made available on TRAI’s official website.
Stakeholders are invited to submit written comments by 8 December and counter-comments by 22 December this year.
