DoT Launches Second Round of SAC Meetings to Advance Telecom Ecosystem

Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia has established six distinct Stakeholders Advisory Committees (SACs) to facilitate a consistent two-way dialogue between the government and the telecom sector.

In alignment with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision of fostering inclusive and collaborative policy decision-making, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), led by Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia and Minister of State for Communications Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, has commenced the second round of meetings with its newly established Stakeholders Advisory Committees (SACs). Recent discussions focused on the SACs for Satellite Communication and Internet Service Providers & Infrastructure Providers.

At yesterday’s meeting of the SAC on Internet Service Providers & Infrastructure Providers, participants addressed current regulatory provisions and the seamless facilitation of Right of Way (RoW) to support a digitally connected India. This initiative is crucial for engaging industry leaders in shaping the future of India's telecommunication ecosystem.

The committee recognized recent progress in RoW processes but stressed the need for better integrated governance and enhanced cooperation from state governments and local municipal bodies. The Secretary (Telecom) assured that the new rules under the New Telecom Act are designed to address these issues, and Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia encouraged industry stakeholders to provide their feedback on the RoW rules.

The Advisory Committee on Satellite Communication reviewed Indian space policy, spectrum allocation, and SUC, recommending measures to strengthen India’s position as a global hub for satellite communication. They praised the Ministry for including significant provisions in the New Telecom Act, which aim to modernize the telecommunications framework by allowing more flexible, liberalized, and technologically neutral spectrum utilization, thus benefiting satellite communication services.

Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia has established six distinct Stakeholders Advisory Committees (SACs) to facilitate a consistent two-way dialogue between the government and the telecom sector. The committees include top CEOs, academicians, researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry thought leaders, focusing on:

Telecom Service Providers

Internet Service Providers & Infrastructure Providers

Telecom Sector Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs)

Telecom Electronics Ecosystem

Satellite Communication Ecosystem

Academicians and R&D in Telecommunications Sector

The Department of Telecommunications is dedicated to leveraging insights from these discussions to drive innovation and growth in the telecom sector. The DoT aims to implement the recommendations and create a productive environment for the sector's advancement. Collaborative efforts from all stakeholders are essential as the DoT moves forward in this consultative process.