Telecom operators, manufacturers spar over importing PON equipment

Operators want to import PON equipment to meet the broadband targets, makers say have enough capacity

A bitter battle is brewing between telecom operators and equipment makers over the contentious issue of importing passive optical network (PON) equipment, which is installed in premises as well as in the exchange and is crucial for enabling high speed fixed broadband in homes.

The Telecom Equipment and Services Export Council (TEPC) — set up to promote telecom exports — has sided with equipment makers in rubbishing claims by telecom operators that the former are unable to supply them with the 80 lakh PON equipment which they require in the next year.

Given this inability, telecom operators would like permission to import