)
The government is likely to amend the rules of business for the Telecom Commission (TC). The secretary of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) will hold a meeting on June 18 to discuss the requirement of amendment in the rules, first defined in June 1989, soon after the TC was formed.
According to a recent discussion, DoT has proposed the TC will have to give seven days' notice to every member of the commission for a meeting. However, the TC chairman may convene a meeting at a shorter notice for special reasons.
TC might also consider redefining its role, considering the fast-changing nature of the telecom industry.
It is proposed that the TC will deal with important policy matters related to the telecom industry such as budget proposals and proposals of expenditure exceeding Rs 5 crore.
Proposals for legislation or promulgation of rules and orders in the exercise of statutory power confirmed on the telecom department will also come to TC.
The commission will also deal with the annual and long-term plans with respect to technology, services and production.
Proposals for acceptance of any rules and procedures, which involve significant deviation from the normal rules and procedures of the government, will have to be cleared by the TC.
TC will also monitor implementation of schemes funded by the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), recommending a policy mechanism for telecom services for uncovered and under-covered areas.
The proposal for amendments came considering the substantial change in policy that have happened over the last few years.
Also, the government does not bear direct responsibility for service provisions and it promotes and facilitates manufacturing and service delivery of telecom in a regulated manner, it is noted.
EMPOWERED PANEL
Proposed powers for Telecom Commission
* Important policy matters such as budget proposals and proposals of expenditure exceeding Rs 5 cr
* Proposals for legislation or promulgation of rules in the exercise of statutory power confirmed on the telecom department
* Annual and long-term plans with respect to technology, services and production
* Giving permission to proposals for acceptance of rules and procedures that involve significant deviation from usual procedures
* Monitoring schemes funded by the Universal Service Obligation Fund
