Thread by @internetfreedom

IFF has submitted our comments on @TRAI's Supplementary Consultation Paper on the Roadmap to Promote Broadband Connectivity and Enhanced Broadband Speed.

As COVID-19 is moves our everyday lives online, we need high speed broadband for EVERYONE!
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Our submissions in October last year also highlighted the need to revamp policy and regulatory initiatives surrounding the broadband infrastructure to ensure that every citizen has access to the internet. Read more here:
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We highlight 4 major points for TRAI's consideration.

First, indirect incentives to licensees for the proliferation of fixed line broadband networks can lead to several issues including the misappropriation of revenues.
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Second, as an alternative to licence fee exemptions, we see direct performance-linked incentives as an effective incentive mechanism. Direct incentives provide a concrete pathway towards increasing the user base and can provide a boost to capital expenditure in the sector.
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Third, there are several problems with public wifi networks, including data breaches and other problems arising from insufficient security standards (that too in absence of a data protection law) which must be considered and appropriately tackled.
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In the installation of small cell wifi infrastructure, low cost high speed connectivity must be provided. Only public sector players should be deployed for this purpose since private players often do not have the economic viability to offer affordable rates.
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Lastly, we highlighted the benefits of usage-linked subsidies over the direct benefit transfers to promote proliferation of broadband services. Direct subsidies provided should involve subsiding monthly packs along with accompanying subsidies for installation charges.
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The SC has highlighted that the internet is a medium to exercise fundamental rights. This is echoed in @DoT_India's Digital Communications Policy and the PM-WANI scheme. As digitization becomes a driving force in society, high speed broadband should be accessible for all!
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