New Trai Chief Vows to Improve Service Quality, Curb Call Drops, and Boost Telecom Sector Growth

New Delhi: Anil Kumar Lahoti assumed the role of Chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) on Tuesday, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring the quality of services, addressing call drops, and fostering a level playing field for the overall growth of the telecom sector.

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Quality of Service as Top Priority

Upon taking charge, Lahoti held meetings with Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, DoT Secretary Neeraj Mittal, and Trai officials. He affirmed that his top priority would be to curb call drops and ensure the quality of services, while also working towards facilitating the all-around growth of the telecom sector and providing a level playing field for all players.

Addressing Call Drops and Regulatory Challenges

Recognizing the significance of quality of service, Lahoti highlighted it as a vast domain and the primary role of Trai. He acknowledged the evolving challenges faced by the telecom sector from a regulatory standpoint and emphasized the need to keep pace with these changes. Lahoti mentioned the recent introduction of the New Telecom Act and stressed the importance of aligning with it and ensuring its proper implementation.

Tackling Call Drops and In-Building Connectivity

Trai sources indicated the need for more stringent regulations and implementation to address call drops effectively. They acknowledged the increasing usage and consumption of telecom services and the resulting call drop issues. Trai has been actively working to address this problem and is aware of its significance.

Additionally, mobile connectivity issues within buildings due to dense construction were identified as an important area of focus. Trai is reportedly preparing a document for the digital rating of buildings to address this challenge. Collaboration between the construction industry and service providers is crucial to ensure seamless in-building connectivity.

Industry Welcomes New Trai Chief

The industry welcomed the appointment of Anil Kumar Lahoti as the new Trai Chairman, expressing optimism that his tenure would mark a period of growth and advancement for India's dynamic telecom sector.

SP Kochhar, Director General of the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), stated that they are optimistic about the growth and advancement of the telecom sector under Lahoti's guidance. They look forward to working with Trai to achieve the national goal of an empowered and inclusive Digital India.

TR Dua, Director-General of the Digital Infrastructure Providers Association (DIPA), expressed eagerness to collaborate with Trai for the continued development of robust digital infrastructure in the country. He highlighted the association's anticipation of support and guidance from Trai in creating a robust telecom infrastructure that enhances connectivity, promotes economic development, and provides communication services to every citizen.

Anil Kumar Lahoti's Background

Anil Kumar Lahoti belongs to the 1984 batch of the Indian Railway Service of Engineers. He retired as Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board on August 31, 2023, after a distinguished career spanning nearly 37 years in the Indian Railways.

Lahoti holds a Gold Medal in Civil Engineering from Madhav Institute of Technology and Science, Gwalior, and a Master of Engineering Structures from the University of Roorkee (IIT Roorkee). Throughout his extensive career in the Railways, he held various positions in different zones and the Railway Board.

With Anil Kumar Lahoti at the helm, Trai is poised to prioritize quality of services, address call drops, and foster a conducive environment for the growth of the telecom sector. His experience and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of India's digital landscape and the realization of a connected and empowered nation.