Anil Kumar Lahoti becomes the new chairman of telecom regulator TRAI

Utkarsh Classes Last Updated 31-01-2024

Anil Kumar Lahoti becomes the new chairman of telecom regulator TRAI

Appointment 4 min read

Former Railway Board chief Anil Kumar Lahoti has been appointed Chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). Before this, the tenure of former TRAI Chairman PD Vaghela had ended. After PD Vaghela, this post was vacant for about 4 months.

AK Lahoti will remain chief for three years:

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of AK Lahoti as the Chairman of TRAI for the next three years. Lahoti will serve as Chairman of TRAI for the next three years from the date of assuming charge.

About Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI):

TRAI was established on February 20, 1997, by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997.

Objectives of TRAI:

TRAI's objective is to create a clean and transparent environment so that there can be fair and healthy competition among companies.
TRAI's mission is to create and improve favorable conditions for the development of telecommunications in the country.
TRAI regulates telecom services including determination/revision of tariffs for telecom services which earlier came under the jurisdiction of the Central Government.
TRAI Headquarters: New Delhi

Structure of TRAI:

TRAI consists of a Chairman, two whole-time members and two part-time members. They are appointed by the Government of India.
The Chairperson and other Members shall hold office for a term of three years or till the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
Chairman of TRAI: The Chairman has powers of general superintendent. He presides over the meetings of TRAI.
Vice-Chairman of TRAI: The Central Government may appoint one of the members of the Authority as Vice-Chairman of TRAI.
The Vice-Chairman exercises and discharges the powers and functions of the Chairman in his absence.

Procedure for removal of TRAI members:

The Central Government has the right to remove any member of TRAI if :
It has been declared bankrupt
Found guilty of a crime involving moral turpitude
Has become physically or mentally incapable of functioning as a member.
He has misused his position and his continuing in office has an adverse impact on public interest.

Functions of TRAI:

The function of TRAI is to make recommendations on the following matters:
Need for introduction of new service provider.
Technological improvements in the services provided by service providers.
Revocation of license for non-compliance with the terms and conditions of the license.
Measures to facilitate fair competition and promote efficiency in the operation of telecommunication services so as to facilitate their growth.