Changes in Telecom License Imminent to Control Sourcing from China

The Government is keen to incorporate the guidelines of the National Security Directive in telecom. As such, it is looking to make changes in the way telecom license is acquired in the country to curb sourcing from non-friendly regions such as China. More importantly, these changes will be implemented in this week, after TRAI changed regulations for commercial SMSes.

Likely Changes in Telecom License Acquisition

The Government is compiling a list of trusted sources for telecom infra from around the world. This list will include sources which are compliant with the cybersecurity and privacy laws. Furthermore, the list is also set to include details about products which the government thinks are best suited for India. Interestingly, the committee that is in charge of compiling the said details is led by the Deputy National Security Advisor. Additionally, the committee will also have two members from the top executives and industrialists from around the industry.

The directive, however, does not envisage mandatory replacement of the existing equipment already inducted in the network of telecom operators and it will also not affect annual maintenance contracts or updates to existing equipment already inducted in the network as on date of effect of the directive.

The key changes happened in the GFR (General Financial Rules) 2017. The changes incorporated seek to restrict countries who share a border with India on grounds of national security and defense against potential espionage by the said countries.