The Department of Telecommunications, in September 2025,
released 3 (three) sets of draft rules under the Telecommunications
Act, 2023 ("Telecom Act") namely the
Draft Telecommunications (Authorisation for Provision of Main
Telecommunication Services) Rules, 2025 ("Main
Services Rules"), the Draft Telecommunications
(Authorisation for Provision of Miscellaneous Telecommunication
Services) Rules, 2025 ("Miscellaneous Services
Rules"), and the Draft Telecommunications
(Authorisation for Captive Telecommunication Services) Rules, 2025
("Captive Services Rules") (collectively
referred to as "Draft Authorisation
Rules"). These Draft Authorisation Rules replace the
long-standing licensing framework under the Telegraph Act 1885,
with a unified authorisation regime. However, the Draft
Authorisation Rules do not override any actions taken under the
Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, such as the granting of licenses,
registrations, or permissions. Such actions will continue to