The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has expressed apprehension regarding the delay, partial acceptance, or outright rejection of its recommendations by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB).

In its annual report for 2022-23, Trai noted that several crucial recommendations remain pending for decision or implementation by DoT and MIB. These recommendations, if put into effect, could significantly benefit the telecommunications and broadcasting sectors. However, Trai emphasized that the efficacy of these recommendations diminishes over time due to technological advancements and evolving industry dynamics. Delays in decision-making render the recommendations obsolete, undermining their original purpose.

Currently, DoT has yet to accept recommendations on eight telecom-related subjects. Issues such as data privacy, security, and ownership, which have been pending since 2018, remain unresolved. Similarly, recommendations concerning telecom license transfer/mergers, cloud services, traffic management, and net neutrality, pending since 2020, await action from DoT.

Moreover, Trai's recommendations on satellite earth station gateways, building ratings, and data economy promotion also await DoT's response. In the broadcasting sector, Trai awaits feedback on 12 consultations, including recommendations dating back to 2012 regarding restrictions on certain entities entering the broadcasting business.

Trai highlighted the necessity for a feedback mechanism to facilitate communication between ministries regarding the acceptance, implementation, or rejection of its recommendations. To streamline this process, Trai developed a Recommendation Status Portal accessible to Trai, DoT, and MIB. This portal serves as a central repository for tracking the real-time status of all recommendations and actions taken.

The delayed response from DoT and MIB underscores the importance of timely decision-making to address the evolving needs of the telecommunications and broadcasting sectors. Trai's call for a structured feedback mechanism and the establishment of a centralized tracking system aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in the implementation of regulatory recommendations.