(a) whether the Government are contemplating to introduce Uniform Termination Charge System in telecom sector;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;
(c) whether the proposal has been welcomed by various telephone service providers ; and
(d) if not, by when this system is likely to come into force?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI ASHOK PRADHAN)
(a) to (d): The Interconnect Usage Charge regime was introduced by Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) vide its regulation `The Telecommunication Interconnect Usage Charge (IUC) regulation 2003 (1 of 2003)`. Termination charges for Fixed, Wireless in Local Loop (Limited Mobile) and Cellular were prescribed in the Regulation. The Regulation is implemented w.e.f. 1.5.2003. The amount of Access Deficit contribution was also specified. The various telecom service providers expressed certain difficulties and accordingly the TRAI is reviewing the above said regulation.