TRAI Annual Report 2023-24: Comprehensive Review of Telecom and Broadcasting Sectors

The report delves into the policies and programs that TRAI has implemented to enhance the operational efficiency and governance of telecom and broadcasting services.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has presented its Annual Report for the year 2023-24, marking an essential milestone in the evaluation of India’s telecom and broadcasting sectors. The report was officially laid on the Table of the Lok Sabha on 12th March 2025 and in the Rajya Sabha on 20th March 2025. This report offers a comprehensive account of the Authority's activities, its policy and program initiatives, financial performance, and the general environment of the telecom industry.

Key Highlights of the TRAI Annual Report 2023-24

The TRAI Annual Report provides a detailed and insightful look into the major regulatory developments, operational reviews, and strategic initiatives undertaken by the Authority during the fiscal year 2023-24. The report serves as an important tool for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the general public to understand the progress, challenges, and innovations within the telecom and broadcasting sectors.

Overview of TRAI’s Activities

The report delves into the policies and programs that TRAI has implemented to enhance the operational efficiency and governance of telecom and broadcasting services. It outlines how the Authority has worked towards fostering fair competition, ensuring consumer protection, and enabling a transparent regulatory framework. The report also sheds light on TRAI’s role in the implementation of digital initiatives, bridging the digital divide, and managing spectrum allocation.

Review of General Environment in the Telecom and Broadcasting Sectors

A significant portion of the report is dedicated to reviewing the overall environment in both the telecom and broadcasting sectors. With the increasing penetration of digital services, the telecom industry has seen remarkable growth. The report discusses the expansion of mobile networks, the rollout of 5G services, and the impact of regulatory measures on service providers. Similarly, in the broadcasting sector, it highlights the integration of new technologies, content distribution challenges, and the rise of Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms.

Detailed Assessment of TRAI’s Operations

The report evaluates TRAI's operational activities, including the assessment of the various functions assigned to the Authority under Section 11 of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997. It discusses the regulatory decisions made in the past year, such as those related to tariffs, interconnection, Quality of Service (QoS), and licensing.

Additionally, the report covers the steps TRAI has taken to ensure that the telecom and broadcasting services are provided in a manner that is beneficial for both consumers and service providers. With the growing demand for better service quality, TRAI’s role in establishing new standards and ensuring compliance is also highlighted.

Organizational Matters and Financial Performance

The organizational matters section of the report provides insights into the internal functioning and administrative setup of TRAI. This includes updates on staffing, organizational structure, and capacity-building efforts. Furthermore, the financial performance of TRAI for the year 2023-24 is presented, with a detailed analysis of its certified accounts, showing the financial sustainability and accountability of the Authority in carrying out its regulatory functions.

The report also includes the audit report, which certifies the accuracy of the financial records and ensures that the funds allocated to TRAI are utilized efficiently and in accordance with prescribed guidelines. The transparency in financial operations has been a key focus area for TRAI, which has worked towards improving its accountability in the regulatory processes.

Future Outlook and Upcoming Initiatives

Looking ahead, the report outlines TRAI’s strategic initiatives for the upcoming years, with a focus on fostering innovation in the telecom and broadcasting sectors. With the rollout of 5G technology and the convergence of telecom and media services, the Authority aims to create a regulatory environment that encourages further investment and technological advancement.

The report also highlights the regulatory measures aimed at supporting the Digital India initiative, including improved infrastructure, rural broadband expansion, and the promotion of digital literacy. TRAI’s role in overseeing these changes will be crucial in maintaining an equitable and sustainable telecom ecosystem in India.

Accessibility of the Report

The full version of the TRAI Annual Report 2023-24 has been made available for public access on the official website of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (www.trai.gov.in). Stakeholders, policymakers, industry professionals, and members of the general public can access this document to gain a deeper understanding of TRAI’s regulatory functions, its policies, and the ongoing developments in India’s telecom and broadcasting sectors.

Contact for Clarification

For any further clarifications or queries, Shri Yatinder Agrohi, Advisor (Administration and IR) at TRAI, is available for assistance. He can be reached at the following contact details:

• Phone: 011-26769602

• Email: advadmn@trai.gov.in

The publication of the 2023-24 Annual Report marks another step in TRAI’s commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring that the regulatory framework keeps pace with the evolving demands of the telecom and broadcasting sectors.