We don't think these recommendations will have any impact in the short term; they need to receive the mandate of the Indian government before it becomes a policy. Even then, the Department of Telecom may make changes, like they did in case of the recent 3G policy. The impact, if these guidelines were to be accepted in their present form: On ISPs: The guidelines allow ISPs like Sify, YouTelecom and other ISPs to offer telephony via the Internet, maybe even convert CyberCafes into PCOs (Public Call Office)- ironic, since earlier, it was the other way around. However, the issue remains that VoIP connections will have to follow a numbering scheme. On Skype and similar services: If you have to use the Internet to call a mobile phone using Skype, Skype will have to be registered in India, you (each user) will have to be issued a VoIP number, and you'll have to pay tax. The numbering scheme is in itself is fairly restrictive, and it defeats the TRAIs goal of helping increase broadband penetration. But numbering was also necessary, since specific VoIP numbers will help take care of the governments security concerns. Service providers will have to install Lawful Interception (LI) equipment And it protects the telecom operators interests - free-for-all VoIP usage would disrupt their Voice business. On National Long Distance Cos: An increase in business for those with National and International Long Distance licenses (NLD and ILD) - including Cable&Wireless (JV with TTK Group), AT&T, British Telecom and…
