Today’s telecom news includes announcements on MTN Group, GAIL India, RailTel, DoT, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), among others.
5G Arrives in Lagos: MTN Ignites Nigeria’s High-Speed Digital Future
MTN Group has launched its commercial 5G network in Lagos, marking a major step in the country’s digital connectivity expansion. The rollout follows earlier trials approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission and places MTN among the first operators to introduce 5G services in the country. The high-speed network is designed to deliver significantly faster data speeds, lower latency, and improved reliability for consumers and businesses. These capabilities are expected to support advanced digital services such as high-definition streaming, cloud applications, smart city solutions, and emerging technologies. Users can access the service using compatible 5G devices, including supported smartphones and routers, enabling faster and more efficient mobile connectivity.
Gas Meets Data: GAIL and RailTel Join Forces to Unlock Telecom Opportunities
GAIL (India) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with RailTel Corporation of India to explore opportunities in the telecom sector. The partnership aims to leverage GAIL’s vast pipeline network and infrastructure along with RailTel’s expertise in telecom and digital services. As part of the collaboration, the companies will assess the potential of using GAIL’s pipeline corridors to deploy optical fibre networks and expand digital connectivity. By combining their infrastructure strengths and technical capabilities, the two firms plan to tap into emerging telecom business opportunities and support the growth of India’s communications infrastructure.
DoT Set to Hold 5% Satellite Spectrum Charge, Sparking Industry Buzz
India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is likely to retain a 5 percent adjusted gross revenue (AGR) charge for satellite communication spectrum, instead of adopting the 4 percent fee suggested by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). Officials believe the 5 percent levy would be simpler to administer and monitor. The department is also considering a 1 percent concession for operators providing services in remote and underserved areas. TRAI had earlier recommended a lower base charge along with additional levies for urban users, but DoT appears inclined to maintain the higher rate. The proposal will be reviewed by the Digital Communications Commission before being sent to the Union Cabinet for final approval.
SHAFANA FAZAL
