IMC 2024: DoT initiates Regulatory Sandbox, eliminates Wireless Operating License requirement


On Monday, Minister of Communications Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the Curtain Raiser of World Telecom Standardization Assembly Delhi 2024 (WTSA 2024) and India Mobile Congress (IMC 2024), marking a significant milestone for the telecom industry.

Spectrum Regulatory Sandbox and Wireless Test Zones

The government introduced guidelines for the Spectrum Regulatory Sandbox (SRS) or Wireless Test Zones (WiTe Zones), aimed at fostering innovation, enhancing ease of doing business, and promoting indigenous telecom manufacturing.

WiTe Zones, categorized into urban and remote areas, offer a simplified regulatory framework to encourage Research and Development (R&D) activities and drive technological advancements across various frequency bands.

Abolition of Wireless Operating License

The requirement for Wireless Operating License (WoL) for Access Services authorization in various licenses was abolished in November 2016.

Additionally, as of November 15, 2022, the need for WoL for Very Small Aperture Terminals (VSATs) operating under Commercial VSAT CUG license has been eliminated.

In further telecom reforms, the requirement of WoL for licensees under section 4 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, has been entirely abolished.

This simplifies the licensing process, reduces compliance burden on Service Providers, and aligns with the Department of Telecommunications’ (DoT) initiatives to promote innovation and ease of doing business.

MoU with Ericsson for 5G Education

An MoU was signed between the Department of Telecommunications and Ericsson to offer accredited courses on 5G for students in DoT’s 100 5G use case labs.

This project aims to enhance capacity building and skill development in the labs, enabling institutes to mentor students and faculties in creating innovative 5G products and use cases.

The collaboration includes the “Ericsson Educate” program tailored for telecommunication subjects, supplementing technical studies with practical knowledge.

The program, designed for the 5G use case labs, offers a three-month accredited course covering key technologies such as Automation, Telecommunications, AI, IoT, 5G, and Machine Learning, intending to train around 10,000 students in the next two years.

Scaling Up IMC 2024

Telecom Secretary Dr. Neeraj Mittal emphasized universal participation for IMC 2024’s success, aiming to upscale the event from Asia’s largest forum to a global platform.

He highlighted the importance of engaging students and educational institutions effectively and promoting gender diversity in technology.

International Collaboration and Recognition

ITU Director of Telecom Standardization Bureau, Seizo ONOE, praised India’s perspective and innovation in digital inclusion, emphasizing collaboration in AI and digital technologies.

Dr. Monisha Ghosh, Professor at the University of Notre Dame, underscored India’s leadership in technology gatherings and called for collaborative efforts between the US and India in telecom initiatives and spectrum management.

Future Prospects WTSA 2024

WTSA 2024 is expected to attract over two thousand technology developers, industry leaders, policymakers, and more, shaping global agendas in emerging technologies.

Hosting IMC 2024 concurrently will provide Indian technology companies with a global platform to showcase innovations and contribute to a robust standardization ecosystem.

Expanding Horizons at IMC 2024

IMC 2024, Asia’s largest technology forum, will focus on Artificial Intelligence, Quantum technology, Circular Economy, and more. The event will provide a platform for startups through initiatives like Aspire, facilitating investor meetings and funding opportunities.

WTSA 2024 Event

The WTSA, a flagship event of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), is scheduled from 15-24 October 2024, along with IMC 2024, which will run from 15-19 October 2024 at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi.

Speaking at the event, Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw remarked,

These initiatives mark a significant step towards fostering innovation and driving technological progress in the telecommunications sector. We invite all stakeholders to join us at WTSA 2024 to shape the future of telecommunications.