(a) whether the Government proposes to bring next generation technology like internet of things, skill development and security under New Telecom Policy (NTP);
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether under the NTP, Government proposes to open workshops on the new telecom policy at industry and area levels;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) whether the Government has any scheme to increase investment under the new policy to upgrade the network?
THE MINISTER OF STATE (IC) OF THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS &
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(SHRI MANOJ SINHA)
(a) to(e) The Department of Telecommunications has already initiated the process to formulate a new National Telecom Policy in view of rapid technological advancement in the sector. The broad roadmap and guiding principles of the National Telecom Policy-2018 have been approved by the Telecom Commission in the meeting held on 29.9.2017. Various Working Groups on themes viz. Digital India, New Technology, Licensing Framework, Make in India, Infrastructure, Spectrum Management, Security, Skill Development & Capacity Building, Allocation and Pricing of Resources, Disaster Management, Consumer Protection, Legislative Framework and Strategic Financial Planning have been formed with participation from all stakeholders. The work on formulation of National Telecom Policy-2018 is in advanced stage and is likely to be completed soon.
Several stakeholders’ consultations and workshops in partnership with industry associations such as Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), Broadband India Forum (BIF), Tower and Infrastructure Providers Association (TAIPA) amongst several others have been held. Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has also conducted two open house discussions and wide consultations to prepare its input on the National Telecom Policy – 2018.