The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India is implementing changes to its licensing and approval processes to enhance the business environment in the telecom sector. One key reform is the introduction of fixed timelines for Experimental Licenses to ensure quicker approvals. These changes are designed to simplify regulatory requirements, foster innovation, and streamline operations for businesses and telecom operators.
For Experimental Licenses in the Radiating Category, specific timelines have been set to expedite the approval process. In cases where Inter-Ministerial Consultation is not needed, licenses will be considered granted after 30 days if no decision is communicated. Similarly, licenses requiring consultation will undergo a structured timeline, ensuring prompt actions from relevant authorities to avoid delays.
Demonstration Licenses in the Radiating Category will also benefit from streamlined processes. Licenses not requiring inter-ministerial consultation will be considered granted after 15 days, while those needing consultation will be approved within 45 days after seeking comments from the necessary authorities. The introduction of these timelines aims to facilitate efficiency and operational clarity in the issuance of licenses.
Furthermore, Equipment Type Approvals (ETA) for license-exempt wireless devices will now follow a self-declaration process. Applicants can submit their requests through the SARAL Sanchar portal, receiving ETA certificates upon successful application. This self-declaration system is expected to simplify approvals and reduce the time required for companies seeking to deploy wireless equipment in the Indian market.
The reforms align with recommendations from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to enhance ease of doing business and regulatory simplicity in the telecom industry. While the new timelines offer efficiency, established terms and conditions from a previous memorandum will remain in place, with adaptations to the updated timelines. It is also emphasized that ETA holders must obtain necessary clearances, including a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), before importing equipment into India.