TRAI to give suo-moto recommendations on uniform licence fee

NEW DELHI: Telecom regulator TRAI is likely to give suo-moto recommendations on the proposed uniform licence fee, as it feels any decision in this regard would have wider ramifications for the entire telecom sector.

Trai decided to come out with recommendations as the government had shown reservation in seeking its advice, even after the regulator wrote to the Telecom Commission Chairman.

According to sources in the know, TRAI may issue a consultation paper in this regard by the middle of next month.

Asked whether TRAI's action indicates a difference of opinion with the government, sources denied of any such thing and said that it is routine for the regulator to give suo-moto recommendations on issues of national importance.

The DoT has decided that the existing variable licence fee structure for telecom operators should be replaced with a uniform one. A departmental note suggests a uniform licence fee of 8.5 per cent for all types of services.

Trai had urged the government to consult it before deciding on a uniform licence fee for operators, saying it has implications for the Centre's revenue, as well as on service providers.

TRAI said the views of all stakeholders must be taken into consideration before arriving at the new figure.