Today's Brief 24/06/2024
- Smriti IASxp
- Jun 24, 2024
- 4 min read
Telecommunications Act 2023 :
Pillars of Progress: Inclusion, Security, Growth, and Responsiveness
On June 21, 2024, the Union Government issued a Gazette Notification to enforce specific sections of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. This legislation is set to overhaul the existing telecom laws, addressing the development, expansion, and operation of telecommunication services and networks, as well as the assignment of spectrum.
Replacing the outdated Indian Telegraph Act of 1885 and the Indian Wireless Telegraph Act of 1933, the new Act reflects significant advancements in technology within the telecom sector. It is guided by the principles of Samavesh (Inclusion), Suraksha (Security), Vriddhi (Growth), and Tvarit (Responsiveness), aiming to realize the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
Passed by Parliament in December 2023 and receiving presidential assent on December 24, 2023, the Act was published in the official Gazette the same day. The key sections came into force on June 26, 2024, and include:
Definitions:The Act clearly defines relevant terminologies to reduce uncertainties, improve investor confidence, and enhance ease of doing business.
RoW Framework: It establishes an effective Right of Way (RoW) framework for both public and private properties. The definition of public entities now includes government agencies, local bodies, and PPP projects. Public entities must provide right of way except in special cases, with fees subject to a ceiling. For private property, the framework is based on mutual agreement, aiming for non-discriminatory and as far as possible, non-exclusive access.
Common Ducts: In line with the PM Gati Shakti vision, the Act empowers the Central Government to establish common ducts and cable corridors.
Telecommunication Standards:The Act outlines powers to set standards and conformity measures for telecommunication services, networks, and security, ensuring national security and promoting Indian technology developers.
National Security and Public Safety: It includes robust provisions for measures necessary for national security and public safety.
Inclusive Service Delivery, Innovation, and Technology Development: The scope of the Universal Service Obligation Fund is expanded to support services in underserved areas and foster R&D of telecom services and technologies. The Act also introduces a legal framework for a Regulatory Sandbox to facilitate innovation.
User Protection: To protect users from misuse, the Act includes measures against unsolicited commercial communication and establishes a grievance redressal mechanism.
Digital by Design: The Act ensures digital implementation, including online dispute resolution and other frameworks.
Sections 61 and 62 are also enforced to ensure a smooth transition, maintaining the existing framework until new rules are established, thereby supporting a business-friendly environment.
2. India Is Hosting 64th ISO Council Meeting From June 25 To 27 In New Delhi :
India is set to host the 64th ISO council meeting, a significant global event in the sugar sector, from June 25 to 27 in New Delhi. Delegates from over 30 countries, along with representatives from various international organizations, will convene to discuss critical issues related to the sugar and biofuel sectors.
As the world’s largest consumer and the second-largest producer of sugar, India has been nominated by the ISO Council to chair the organization for 2024. To kick off the series of events, an industrial tour for international delegates will be held at a grain-based distillery in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, on June 24th. This tour aims to showcase India’s adoption of the latest technology in the production of biofuels and other by-products.
On June 25, a workshop titled ‘Sugar and Biofuels – Emerging Vistas’ will be organized at Bharat Mandapam. Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New & Renewable Energy, will inaugurate the workshop. The event will see participation from international delegates, top management of Indian sugar mills, industry associations such as ISMA and NFCSF, and technical experts.
This workshop will provide an opportunity for over 200 delegates from various organizations and parts of the world to discuss the future of the global sugar sector, biofuels, sustainability, and the role of farmers.
The forum also aims to strengthen the Global Biofuel Alliance, an initiative by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promote the development and adoption of sustainable biofuels worldwide, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Many member countries of the ISO and the Global Biofuel Alliance are common, making this forum an ideal platform to expand the alliance and promote biofuels.
What is Global Biofuel alliance?
is an international collaborative initiative aimed at promoting the development and adoption of biofuels worldwide. It focuses on enhancing the use of sustainable biofuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy security, and promote economic growth. Key aspects of the Alliance include:
1. Objectives:
- Sustainability:Promoting the production and use of biofuels in an environmentally sustainable manner.
- Energy Security: Reducing dependency on fossil fuels by encouraging the use of alternative energy sources.
- Economic Growth:Creating new economic opportunities through the biofuel industry, particularly in rural areas.
2. Member Nations:
The Alliance consists of a diverse group of countries committed to advancing biofuel technologies and policies. These nations collaborate on research, share best practices, and support each other in implementing biofuel projects.
3. Research and Development:
- Innovation: Investing in research to develop advanced biofuels that are more efficient and environmentally friendly.
- Collaboration:Partnering with academic institutions, private sector companies, and other stakeholders to drive innovation in the biofuel sector.
4. Policy Advocacy:
The Alliance works to influence global energy policies to create favorable conditions for the biofuel industry. This includes advocating for supportive legislation, subsidies, and international agreements that promote the use of biofuels.
5. Capacity Building:
- Training Programs:Providing education and training to build expertise in biofuel production and utilization.
- Technology Transfer:Facilitating the transfer of biofuel technologies to developing countries to help them build their own biofuel industries.
6. Environmental and Social Impact:
The Alliance is committed to ensuring that biofuel production does not negatively impact food security or lead to deforestation. It promotes practices that protect biodiversity and support local communities.
7. Economic Benefits:
- Job Creation:Generating employment opportunities in the biofuel sector, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing.
- Rural Development:Supporting rural economies by providing farmers with new markets for their crops.
Through these efforts, the Global Biofuel Alliance aims to create a sustainable and resilient energy future, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change and achieve sustainable development goals.
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