TRAI pitches for virtual network operator

NEW DELHI: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has suggested the creation of a virtual network operators (VNOs) in the telecom sector.

VNOs are service delivery operators who do not own the underlying core network(s) but rely on the network and support of the infrastructure providers for providing telecom services to end-users/customers.

VNOs can provide any or all telecom services which are being provided by the existing operators.

"The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) through its reference dated July 7th, 2014, had sought recommendations of TRAI on the subject,” the regulator said in its statement.

VNO be introduced through proper "licensing framework" in the Indian telecom sector.

"The VNOs should be permitted for all segments of Voice, Data and Video as well as for all services notified in the UL,” TRAI in its statement.

“VNO to be introduced in the network based on the basis of mutually accepted terms and conditions between NSO and the VNO. The terms and conditions of sharing the infrastructure between the NSO and VNO are left to the market to determine,” it added.

Local Cable Operators (LCOs) and Multi Service Operators (MSOs) can become VNO and/or are permitted to share infrastructure with VNOs.

For introduction of VNO in the sector, there should be a separate category of license namely UL (VNO). Like UL authorization, only pan-India or service area-wise authorizations may be granted under a UL (VNO) license.

Duration for VNO licenses should be 10 years, extendable by 10 years at a time.

“Customer verification and number activation shall be the responsibility of a VNO for its own customers,” the regulator said in its statement.