Archive · 18 Aug 2025
India's Telecom Policy: Pushing Local Gear Amidst Concerns
India is updating its telecom rules.
The new plan wants India to make its own phone and internet equipment, instead of buying from other countries.
Some companies agree, saying it's good for security, while others worry about the plan.
They want the government to clarify costs.
The goal is better internet for everyone.
However, there are worries about how to build the infrastructure to provide good internet in cities.
Draft National Telecom Policy 2025 (NTP-25) calls for increased indigenous telecom equipment.
VoICE advocates for mandating indigenous telecom gear, citing national security concerns.
COAI expresses concerns regarding direct spectrum allocation for private 5G networks.
Telecom operators worry about the lack of clarity on financial issues like AGR and SUC.
NTP-25 aims to enhance connectivity but faces challenges in wireline broadband expansion.
- Who
- Industry bodies like VoICE and COAI, along with telecom operators, are discussing the draft policy.
- What
- The draft National Telecom Policy 2025 proposes changes to telecom regulations in India.
- When
- The 21-day public consultation on the draft NTP-25 is drawing to a close.
- Where
- India
- Why
- To enhance connectivity and encourage domestic telecom manufacturing.
VoICE
COAI
Spectrum Allocation
VoICE
Supports direct allocation of spectrum for private 5G networks.
COAI
Opposes direct allocation, favoring leasing or network slicing.
- Policy Name
- National Telecom Policy 2025 (NTP-25)
- VoICE's goal
- Mandate indigenous telecom equipment
- COAI's concern
- Direct spectrum allocation to enterprises
- Target for domestic manufacturing
- 50% import substitution by 2030
- Focus
- Enhancing connectivity