Telecom Commission’s green signal for virtual network

Consumers are set to get more choices for voice and data services while telecom companies will have additional options to monetise unused airwaves. The government has allowed virtual network operators to set up shop. Virtual network operators (VNOs) provide mobile services without owning spectrum or mobile infrastructure. Typically, a VNO buys bulk talk time and bandwidth from a telecom operator and resells to users under its own brands. The Telecom Commission has approved a new category of unified licence for VNOs, with an entry fee of Rs.7.5 crore for those who want to offer all services. For others, the fee would range from Rs.15 lakh for national internet services to Rs.1.25 crore for a long-distance telecom licence.