The Central Government has notified a new set of telecom rules that replace India’s long-standing licence-based framework with an authorisation-based system for telecom service providers. The move operationalises key provisions of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 and marks one of the biggest regulatory reforms in the sector in decades. Alongside the new rules, the government has also launched the Telecom eServices Portal, a digital platform that will handle authorisation applications and related approvals online.
The new framework is intended to simplify regulatory processes while modernising the telecom ecosystem to accommodate emerging technologies and new service models.
Shift from Licences to Authorisations
Under the newly notified Telecommunications (Authorisation for Provision of Main Telecommunication Services) Rules, telecom companies will no longer operate under the traditional licensing regime. Instead, eligible entities can apply for government authorisation to provide telecom services either as a Network Service Operator, a Virtual Network Operator (VNO), or both.
Existing licence holders, including operators functioning under Unified Licence (UL), Unified Access Service Licence (UASL), Internet Service Provider (ISP), National Long Distance (NLD), and International Long Distance (ILD) licences, will be allowed to migrate to the new authorisation framework.
Digital Portal to Streamline Approvals
The government has simultaneously launched the Telecom eServices Portal, which will enable companies to submit applications, obtain approvals, and manage regulatory compliance digitally.
Officials said the portal is designed to reduce paperwork, improve transparency, and accelerate the processing of applications under the new regulatory regime. It is expected to serve as a single-window platform for telecom service providers.
New Rules for Satellite Services
The notification also introduces separate provisions for companies planning to establish or expand satellite-based telecom networks. Such entities will be required to obtain specific government permission and provide detailed information regarding satellites, space capacity, gateway infrastructure, and related technical specifications.
The rules also require satellite earth station gateways serving these networks to be located within India, subject to conditions specified by the government.
Modernising the Telecom Sector
The authorisation-based model is intended to create a more flexible regulatory environment capable of supporting next-generation communication technologies. Industry observers believe the new framework could simplify market entry for new service providers while providing greater regulatory clarity for existing telecom operators.
The rules were finalised after the Department of Telecommunications sought public comments on the draft framework in 2025 before incorporating stakeholder feedback into the final notification.
Transition to the New Framework
The rollout of the authorisation regime represents a significant shift in India’s telecom regulatory architecture. Existing operators will transition gradually to the new system, while future applicants will seek authorisation instead of conventional licences.
The government expects the reforms to simplify compliance, encourage innovation, and support the continued growth of India’s telecommunications sector. As the new framework is implemented, additional operational guidelines and migration procedures are expected to be issued to facilitate a smooth transition for telecom companies.
