Lt. Gen. Dr. S.P. Kochhar

The integration of artificial intelligence in each sector of society has proved its potential to comprehend it in the telecom sector as well. Artificial intelligence stands at the crossroads of innovation and ethics, presenting both transformative benefits and profound challenges. AI’s potential to enhance our lives is undoubtedly immense. It has unlocked new knowledge and drives innovations beyond our reach.

However, we need to understand the breach of confidentiality as well. Governments worldwide are increasingly recognizing the need to address AI challenges and are implementing a range of strategies and regulations. Hence focusing on high-risk applications, transparency and safety beyond regulations, standardization of AI practices and technologies, ensure safety and trust. There’s no denying the fact that AI embodies a powerful tool that holds immense promise for advancing human welfare, but also possesses significant risk. Hence, balancing these aspects requires a multifaceted approach involving robust regulation, international cooperation and rigorous standardization.

In the Union Budget 2024-25 announced by the Ministry of Finance, COAI recommended for a string of requests for ease of doing business as well as for some relief to this core sector which is increasingly becoming a mainstay in supporting the other sectors in the country. Measures such as abolishing regulatory levies like the contributions to the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) and annual gross revenue (AGR), exemption of service tax on additional AGR dues, as well as exemption of customs duty and GST,. COAI also requested to reduce custom duties for 4G and 5G network products with 5G expected to catalyze digital transformation across sectors. The industry further urged to prioritize the requirement for a structure development so that the new government can set up a precedent for visionary policy making, driving India towards a robust digital future.

On the contrary, the government’s decision to increase Basic Custom Duty from 10%-15% on PCBA will increase the cost of providing services as the telcos are continuously upgrading their networks with the advent of the new technology. Therefore, even though the long- standing demands remain unaddressed, COAI will continue to work with the government for the same.

Regarding the issue of radiation from telecom towers, , COAI has appealed to the Government that if the present level of EMF norms, which are 1/10 th of the globally accepted ICNIRP norms, are not revised it, will severely harm consumer experience and will lead to a deteriorated 5G experience due to slower net speed, lower network quality and inferior signal strength. It will also impact the potential aspects to enhance the wireless infrastructure and deployment of 5G. This issue, therefore, needs to be addressed by the Government at the earliest opportunity.

COAI and the Department of Telecommunications jointly organize the India Mobile Congress (IMC), touted as Asia’s largest digital technology forum, which unveiled its 2024 theme at a launch event. This year’s IMC theme focuses on innovation, industry leadership, and global tech engagement, promising a significant impact on innovators, industry leaders and take enthusiasm are a worldwide.