AIFISPA supports Telecommunications Bill 2023 for Promoting Digital Connectivity

Bangalore, Karnataka, 19th December 2023: The All India Fixed Internet Service Providers Association (AIFISPA) expresses its support and appreciation for the recently introduced draft Telecommunications Bill, 2023, presented in the Lok Sabha on December 18th, 2023, by Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Hon’ble Minister of Communications. This comprehensive bill aims to replace the long-standing Indian Telegraph Act of 138 years, currently governing the telecom sector.

India’s digital economy accounts for more than 15% of India’s GDP and has been growing at over 15% over the past decade. The telecommunications industry forms the backbone of the digital economy. In this context, the Draft telecommunications bill 2023, is a step in the right direction, addressing the needs of the industry and all allied stakeholders.

AIFISPA acknowledges that the draft Telecommunications Bill 2023 includes pivotal features, such as granting providers a non-discriminatory, non-exclusive right of way. This provision is poised to enhance faster connectivity and last-mile deployments, thereby improving high-speed fixed broadband access for the general public.

Commenting on the draft bill, Shri Sunil Yajaman, President of AIFISPA stated, “This draft bill is forward-looking and is contemporary for the current times. The bill accords highest priority to national interests and digital security while promoting and recognizing the needs of the industry today. AIFISPA is confident that the government will encourage fixed broadband service providers through license fee exemption aligning with these impactful telecom policy interventions.”

AIFISPA remains committed to collaborating with the Government in advancing the digital economy and enhancing the country’s connectivity. The draft telecom bill signifies a positive stride in the right direction.