TRAI Issues Recommendations on Critical Services
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has unveiled its latest recommendations concerning critical services in the Machine-to-Machine (M2M) sector and the transfer of ownership of M2M SIM cards. This move follows a request from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to revisit earlier recommendations from 2017. TRAI’s new guidelines aim to enhance the framework for identifying critical services and ensuring seamless ownership transitions of M2M SIMs, which are vital for various applications across multiple sectors.
Background and Consultation Process
The DoT had previously referred to TRAI’s 2017 recommendations regarding spectrum, roaming, and quality of service requirements in M2M communications. In a letter dated January 1, 2024, the DoT requested TRAI to reconsider its recommendations under Section 11 of the TRAI Act, focusing on two main issues: the identification of critical services in the M2M sector and the transfer of ownership of M2M SIMs. In response, TRAI issued a consultation paper on June 24, 2024, inviting comments from stakeholders. The consultation process garnered 16 comments and one counter-comment, culminating in an open house discussion held virtually on October 24, 2024.
Based on the feedback received and its own analysis, TRAI has finalized its recommendations. These guidelines are intended to support the growth of the M2M ecosystem, which is still in its early stages but holds significant potential for various industries, including automotive, healthcare, and smart cities.
Identifying Critical IoT Services
TRAI’s recommendations emphasize the importance of identifying critical IoT services that require ultra-reliable, low-latency M2M connectivity. As the M2M ecosystem matures, it is essential to classify services that are crucial for national security, public health, and safety. TRAI proposes that a service should be classified as a critical IoT service if it meets two criteria: it must demand ultra-reliable low-latency connectivity, and any disruption in connectivity could severely impact national security or public safety.
To facilitate this classification, TRAI recommends that the relevant ministry or regulatory body, in consultation with the DoT, should oversee the identification of critical IoT services. Additionally, an institutional mechanism should be established to assist these bodies in the classification process.
Technology and Security Considerations
TRAI advocates for a technology-agnostic approach in providing critical IoT services. This means that any wireless or wired M2M communication technology, whether utilizing licensed or unlicensed spectrum, should be permitted as long as it meets the required service performance benchmarks. This flexibility is crucial as it allows for the adoption of various technologies that can effectively support critical services.
Moreover, security and privacy are paramount in the deployment of IoT devices, especially in critical sectors. TRAI has recommended that M2M communication modules embedded in IoT devices used in these sectors should comply with the Mandatory Testing & Certification of Telecommunication Equipment (MTCTE) framework. This phased approach aims to address security and privacy concerns associated with M2M communications.
Transfer of M2M SIM Ownership
In addition to identifying critical services, TRAI has outlined recommendations for the transfer of M2M SIM ownership. It suggests that the DoT should establish a framework for the registration and authorization of M2M Service Providers (M2MSPs) during mergers, demergers, or acquisitions. Furthermore, TRAI recommends enabling provisions for transferring ownership of M2M SIMs between authorized entities.
These recommendations are designed to streamline the process of managing M2M SIMs, ensuring that ownership transitions do not disrupt service delivery. The full set of recommendations has been made available on TRAI’s official website, where stakeholders can access further details and clarifications. For inquiries, TRAI has provided contact information for its advisor on network spectrum and licensing.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn
