India: Introduced the Indian Telecommunications Bill 2023 including licensing requirements

On 18 December 2023, the Telecommunications Bill 2023, including licensing requirements, was introduced to the Lower House of Parliament. The Bill includes licensing requirements for entities that intend to provide telecommunications services, establish, operate, maintain, or expand telecommunications networks, or possess radio equipment. These entities must obtain a license from the central government. Any license, registration, or permission granted under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, or the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933 shall continue to operate for the specified duration mentioned in the license. If no definite period of validity was given, the license is valid for 5 years. The Telecommunications Bill of 2023 is currently up for vote in the lower house. If passed, it will then be subject to a vote in the Upper House of the Indian Parliament.