The Centre can set up regulatory sandboxes independently or approve proposals submitted by applicants, including in response to government invitations. (File Photo)
\n\nThe government has announced a new framework to help startups, businesses, researchers and individuals test emerging telecommunications technologies under controlled conditions, with the notification of the Telecommunications (Regulatory Sandbox) Rules, 2026. The rules establish a mechanism for testing new telecom services, technologies and business models in a regulated environment.
\n\nThey also allow specified exemptions from certain provisions of the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997, subject to applicable conditions.
\n\nAccording to the Gazette notification, the Central Government can establish a regulatory sandbox independently after assessing the need for one. It can also approve proposals submitted by applicants, either on their own initiative or in response to a government invitation seeking proposals.
\n\nThe notification states: "The Central Government may, by order, create and specify a regulatory sandbox on the portal,— (a) suo motu, after assessing the need for the same; or (b) upon acceptance under sub-rule (4) of a proposal submitted by an applicant under sub-rule (2) at his own initiative or in response to a request for proposals from the Central Government."
Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/business-economy
