The Department of Telecommunications had taken a significant initiative toward enhancing the telecom connectivity scenario in India in the form of its Intra Circle Roaming, or ICR, facility that was launched within the telecom towers funded by DBN. Seamless provision of 4G services with major telecom operators would be available in the hands of users, based on their selected telecom service provider-TSP. This development is likely to revolutionize rural and remote connectivity, bridge the telecom gap, and improve accessibility across the nation.
What is Intra Circle Roaming (ICR)?
Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) is a facility given by the telecom regulators that allow subscribers from one's own provider's network to avail of network services over the other operators' infrastructure, if the subscriber's own provider's network is not available in the locality. This initiative allows seamless 4G connectivity for users of Jio, Airtel, and BSNL, even when a TSP does not have a tower in the near vicinity.
The Backbone of Enhanced Connectivity
The Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), formerly known as the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), is a government initiative established under the Telecommunications Act of 2023. Its primary objectives include:
Enhanced telecom connectivity in areas that are least served and unreached.
Telecom services become relatively affordable.
Empowerment towards the establishment of 4G mobile towers within rural and hard-to-reach geographies.
Under the DBN, more than 27,000 mobile towers have been sanctioned to facilitate access to over 35,400 villages through 4G connectivity. This network will form the platform for the ICR facility where communication is done without disruption through previously disconnected spaces.
Key Highlights of the ICR Facility
Accessibility for Jio, BSNL, and Airtel Users
The ICR facility will benefit subscribers of Jio, BSNL, and Airtel with an ability to place calls and offer 4G services even though their TSP does not exist in the locale. This, in fact is a big difference from the classical system, as only subscribers from the operator were able to take advantage.
Cost-Effective Solution
The capital expenditures (CAPEX) and operational costs are reduced through shared infrastructure by telecom operators. In the collaborative approach, there is no need for individual towers for each operator, and this approach optimizes resources and reduces redundancy.
Bridging the Telecom Gap
Indeed, rural and isolated areas in India have long needed better telecom connectivity. The ICR initiative does the trick by extending reliable 4G service to the hard-to-reach areas, making digital inclusion as well as economic development possible.
Launch of ICR and Other Initiatives
The ICR facility was inaugurated by Union Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya Scindia. Several other initiatives were launched at the event to complement the efforts of the government in enhancing digital connectivity:
Sanchar Sathi Mobile App
Sanchar Sathi is an app available for iOS and Android users. The app offers tools to secure telecom resources and combat fraud. It is developed to help the user protect their mobile connections and create a safer telecom environment.
National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0
The updated vision document for the National Broadband Mission has plans to connect 1.7 lakh villages in the country. This is yet another initiative taken by the government to achieve universal broadband access.
Benefits of the ICR Facility
For Telecom Operators
Cost Savings: Sharing infrastructure reduces the need for individual investments in tower installations.
Expanded Reach: Operators can offer services in areas where they previously lacked a presence.
For Consumers
Seamless Connectivity: Users can enjoy uninterrupted 4G services regardless of their TSP’s network availability.
Improved Access: Rural and remote populations gain access to reliable telecom services, enabling them to participate in the digital economy.
For the Government
Efficient Use of Resources: The DBN-funded towers serve multiple operators, maximizing the return on investment.
Digital Inclusion: Enhanced connectivity in rural areas aligns with the government’s vision of a digitally empowered society.
Impact on Rural and Remote Areas
In the near future, the ICR (Intra-Circle Roaming) facility is expected to cause a significant difference in rural and remote areas. Access to better connectivity will be one of the greatest catalysts to grow in the economy for e-commerce, online education, and telemedicine services, giving access to other scarce resources and opportunities. This social inclusion also covers bridging digital divides and empowered marginalized communities in better access to telecom services. Moreover, disaster management needs the setting up of proper communication networks for the efficient and timely response during emergencies in these areas.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While the ICR initiative is a significant step forward, it is not without challenges. Some potential hurdles include:
Technical Compatibility: Ensuring seamless integration of networks across different operators may require advanced technological solutions.
Maintenance and Upkeep: Sustaining the shared infrastructure will necessitate coordinated efforts among operators and the government.
User Awareness: Educating users about the benefits and functionality of the ICR facility is essential for widespread adoption.
Despite these challenges, the future of telecom connectivity in India seems promising. In a similar way, ICR facilities that benefit from DBN-funded infrastructure can fulfill their potential to almost revolutionize communication in far flung and rural areas, thereby contributing to the overall objective of a digitally inclusive India.
The Department of Telecommunications is opening the Intra Circle Roaming facility on a country-wide basis and creating a big moment in the telecom journey towards providing universal connectivity throughout India. Based on the concept of using mobile towers funded under DBN, this ensures proper 4G services by using Jio, Airtel, and BSNL among the users. End. The ICR facility will, in association with complementary initiatives such as the Sanchar Sathi app and National Broadband Mission 2.0, revolutionize the digital landscape of the country and facilitate economic growth, social inclusion, and technological advancement.
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