New telecom policy may include framework for NGN

The government today said it might incorporate provisions for a separate regulatory framework for different forms of communication services under the Next Generation Network (NGN) as part of New Telecom Policy-2011.

NGN offers all communication services -- voice, data and video -- on a single IP network. At present, these services are covered under different rules as per the existing policy.

"The introduction of a New Convergence Communications Act is also being looked into as part of the New Telecom Policy - 2011, which is being drafted" Department of Telecommunications (DoT) Secretary R Chandrasekhar said.

Speaking at a two-day NGN seminar, organised by Trai, he said, "It would be appropriate... This Act could provide an appropriate regulatory framework for provision of converged services and triple play that is valid for the internet and television to consumers.

In 2000, the Government had introduced a Communications Convergence Bill for a single regulatory framework for broadcasting, telecom and multimedia sectors. However, it didn't become an Act.

NGNs have advanced systems that enable telecom operators to provide better quality signals for all services. These networks help operators reduce capital expenditure by offering all services over the single Internet Protocol infrastructure.

Trai Chairman JS Sarma said, "We expect to issue a consultation paper by the end of October, and give our recommendations to the government or make regulations by the middle of December. Our plan is that by the end of the year, we should be ready with the blueprint on NGN in the country."

In January, Trai had invited Expression of Interest (EoI) for consultancy services to help formulate the policy and regulatory framework for telecom service providers migrating to NGN.