TELECOM REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF INDIA (TRAI)

TOPIC: Economy

Context- The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has urged TRAI to expedite submission of its recommendations on 5G spectrum auctions.

Concept-

About TRAI:

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) was established in 1997 by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997.
The head office of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is located at New Delhi.
The TRAI consists of a Chairperson, two whole-time members and two part-time members, all of which are appointed by the Government of India.

Functions of TRAI:

The function of the TRAI is to make recommendations to the central government on matters related to service providers, Revocation of license for non-compliance , Measures to facilitate competition and promote efficiency in the operation of telecommunication services to facilitate their growth etc.
Laying down the standards of quality of service to be provided by the service providers.
Timely and officially notifying the rates at which the telecommunication services within India and outside India shall be provided under the TRAI Act, 1997.
The recommendations of the TRAI are not binding upon the Central Government.

Powers of TRAI:

It can call upon any service provider to furnish in writing the information or explanation relating to its affairs as the Authority may require.
The Authority may appoint one or more persons to make an inquiry in relation to the affairs of any service provider.
It is empowered to direct any of its officers or employees to inspect the books of accounts or other documents of any service provider.
The Authority shall have the power to issue such directions to service providers as it may consider necessary for proper functioning by service providers.