Cabinet approves number of structural & process reforms in Telecom sector

New Delhi: The Union Cabinet today approved a number of structural and process reforms in the Telecom sector.

These are expected to protect and generate employment opportunities, promote healthy competition, protect interests of consumers, infuse liquidity, encourage investment and reduce regulatory burden on Telecom Service Providers.

The Reform measures will further boost the proliferation and penetration of broadband and telecom connectivity.

The Cabinet decision reinforces Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a robust Telecom Sector.

Briefing reporters after the cabinet meeting, Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, the package is also expected to boost 4G proliferation, infuse liquidity and create an enabling environment for investment in 5G networks.

He said, nine structural reforms and five procedural reforms plus relief measures have been taken for the Telecom Service Providers.

Vaishnaw said, 100 per cent Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under automatic route has been permitted in Telecom Sector to encourage investment.

He said, the tenure of the spectrum auctions has been increased from 20 to 30 years.