TRAI issues “Telecom Interconnection (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2026”.

The telecom regulator TRAI today issued the “Telecommunication Interconnection (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2026”, which aim to modernize interconnection procedures between telecom networks in India. This amendment re‑evaluates the existing interconnection fee structure, provides more equal opportunities for small and medium‑sized operators, and ensures better quality services for end‑consumers as key points. The regulator said this step will encourage competition in the rapidly changing digital ecosystem and increase transparency in network‑to‑network transfers.

The regulations specifically strengthen interconnection standards for 5G and future advanced services. They set clear standards for minimum backhaul bandwidth requirements, call drop rate, and data latency. Additionally, by adopting the “real cost” principle in fee determination, large operators are prevented from giving undue advantage to smaller players. In this direction, TRAI introduced a “parity‑based fee model”, whereby fees will be determined based on the actual value of network usage.

Industry representatives welcomed the initiative, but also expressed expectations that the regulator establish a clear timeline and monitoring mechanism for the implementation of the new conditions. Jio, Airtel and Vodafone Idea said that these rules will strengthen the competitive environment, but sufficient support to small operators will be necessary. Consumer organizations also indicated that if the regulator…