The draft of the New Telecom Policy 2011 (NTP 2011) is expected to be released on Monday, 10th October by the Communications and IT Minister, Kapil Sibal. The IT Policy was released two days back. There is no doubt that it will be on the neo-liberalisation policy line of the government with more support to the MNCs and Indian big business as was done in NTP 1995 as well as NTP 1999.
As per media reports, the NTP 2011 may abolish the roaming charges, MNP will be allowed from one circle to another circle, Trading, pooling and Sharing of spectrum, unified licence system with pan-India licence, exit policy for telcos who want to quit the business etc. Spectrum and Licencing may be separated. There seems to be a proposal to start a Telecom Finance Corporation for facilitating investments.
As the Convener of the JAC, I had submitted to the Minister Communications proposals for the NTP about three months back, which was forwarded to all BSNL Unions. A detailed note is also being prepared. Since the draft policy may be released by 10th October, it is necessary that we furnish our opinions to the Minister as early as possible and seek a meeting with the concerned persons to press our point of view. Any suggestion in the matter may be immediately sent to me.