ADDENDUM TO THE NEW TELECOM POLICY
- 1999 (NTP-99)
Given the central
aim of NTP-99 to ensure rapid expansion of tele-density; given
the unprecedented expansion of telecom services that competition
has brought about; given the steep reductions in tariffs that
competition has ensured; given the fact that advances in technologies
erase distinctions imposed by earlier licensing systems; given
the fact that even more rapid advances in technologies are imminent;
given the steep reduction in costs of providing telecom services;
given the rapid convergence of tariffs for wireless services;
given the fact that the provision of such services at the cheapest
possible rates and by the most reliable mode is the sine qua non
for India to consolidate its position as a leading hub of Communications
systems, Information Technology, IT enabled services, and of establishing
itself as a leader in new disciplines such as bio-informatics
and biotechnology; given the recommendations of TRAI in this regard;
Government, in the public interest in general and consumer interest
in particular and for the proper conduct of telegraphs and telecommunications
services, has decided that there shall also be the following categories
of licences for telecommunication services:
- Unified Licence for Telecommunication
Services permitting Licensee to provide all telecommunication/
telegraph services covering various geographical areas using
any technology;
- Licence for Unified Access (Basic
and Cellular) Services permitting Licensee to provide Basic
and /or Cellular Services using any technology in a defined
service area.
