(a) whether the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has shown its disappointment over
the comparatively less dissemination of broadband services than envisaged in the country;
(b) if so, whether the TRAI has also recommended to provide subsidy on the same;
(c) if so, the details thereof alongwith the targets fixed by the Government for the expansion
of broadband services in the country in a holistic way; and
(d) the steps taken/being taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI GURUDAS KAMAT)
(a) to (c): Yes, Madam. Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in its recommendations dated 2nd January
2008 on ‘Growth of Broadband’, had noted that inspite of various initiatives taken, the growth of broadband
is poor. TRAI had, inter-alia, recommended to provide subsidy from Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF)
for broadband through satellite and sharing of backhaul in rural areas.
As per the Broadband Policy 2004, the estimated growth of broadband subscribers in the country envisaged
through various technologies was 3, 9 and 20 million by 2005, 2007 and 2010 respectively.
(d) The steps taken/being taken by the Government in this regard, inter-alia, are as under:
# Guidelines for Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) services issued. Introduction of BWA services will enhance
the penetration as well as growth in broadband subscribers.
# Process of allotment of spectrum for 3G and BWA services to the private operators through e-auction has
already been started.
# For providing wireline broadband connections to Gram Panchayats, Higher Secondary Schools , Public Health
Centres etc. under the USOF scheme, funds to the tune of Rs.1500 crore have been earmarked during the current
five year plan.
# With the aim to provide e-governance and data services to rural masses, Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 has been
suitably amended to enable provision of USOF support for provision of broadband connectivity to rural and remote areas.
# Wi-Fi access in major public utility places like airport, malls, hotels etc. is being implemented
in a progressive manner by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL).
# Outdoor and indoor usage of low power Wi-Fi and Wireless Broadband systems in 2.4 GHz-2.4835
GHz band has been delicensed.
# The use of low power indoor systems in 5.15-5.35 GHz & 5.725-5.875 GHz has also been delicensed.