MUMBAI: In a bid to prepare a roadmap for the implementation of the National Digital Communications Policy 2018, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is planning to hold discussions with stakeholders.
TRAI chairman RS Sharma said, “We are readying ourselves and consult stakeholders on the policy aspects that require attention. The newly-approved National Digital Communications Policy also contained proposals put forth by the sector regulator.”
According to him the new policy clearly lays down principles for the Digital India of tomorrow and the fifth-generation (5G) technology. The cabinet has approved the National Digital Communications Policy 2018 that aims to attract $100 billion worth of investment and create as many as 40 lakh new jobs by 2022 in the sector.
According to the reports, Gram Panchayats or village blocks, according to the government, would be provided with up to 1 gbps connectivity by 2020 and 10 gbps by 2022. The new policy also seeks to ensure broadband coverage to uncovered regions with every citizen to be provided with connectivity of up to 50 mbps and to create common service ducts and utility corridors in cities and national highway projects.
TRAI’s top official said, “There are multiple opportunities to create common infrastructure. Common ducts should also be implemented.”
The initiative would allow infrastructure providers to deploy a common terminal or box for optic fibre and digital TV cable with an objective to mitigate Right-of-Way issues. Telecom infrastructure, including fiberisation, according to Sharma, would be critical part of the delivery of digital services in the country.