TRAI (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Economy)

Context: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recently proposed amendments to mobile number portability (MNP) rules to address SIM-swap frauds.

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)

• About: It is a regulatory body set up by the Government of India under section 3 of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997.
• Aim: To regulate telecom services, including fixation/revision of tariffs for telecom services which were earlier vested in the Central Government.
• Establishment: In 1997
• Composition: Chairperson, two whole-time members and two part-time members, all of which are appointed by the Government of India.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Communications and Broadcasting
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Tenure: 3 years or till the age of 65 years

Functions of TRAI

• Providing recommendations on various matters to the Government.
• Conducting general administrative and regulatory tasks.
• Establishing tariffs and rates for telecom services.
• Undertaking any additional responsibilities delegated by the Central Government.