Delicensing low power short range devices to benefit telecom sector

The exemption of very low power radio frequency (RF) devices or equipment for inductive applications from licensing requirements will be beneficial for the telecom and electronics, as well as, allied sectors in the medium to long term, according to the handset industry body India Cellular and Electronics Associations (ICEA).

“The delicensing or the exemption of licensing for the use of very low power radio frequency devices or equipment for Inductive Applications (including wireless charging through the inductive process) would prove to be beneficial for the telecom and electronic sectors and the allied industries in the medium to long term,” said Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman of ICEA.

ICEA represents companies Apple, Lava, Micromax, Xiaomi, among others.

It also believes that the delicensing initiative will help build a local design and manufacturing ecosystem for low-powered short-range devices (SRD) and Internet of Things (IoT) applications.

“Nowadays, low power applications and new-age mobile technologies, including wireless charging, wearables, IoT applications, etc are globally acceptable and prevalent. Through this Notification, the country will now enable a favorable environment for their enhanced design, manufacturing, use, and promotion,” Mohindroo added.

The Ministry of Communications Monday through a notification exempted the use of Very Low Power Radio Frequency Devices or Equipments for Inductive Applications from licensing requirements.

The Use of Very Low Power Radio Frequency Devices or Equipments for Inductive Applications (Exemption from Licence) Rules, 2021 states that no license shall be required by any person to establish, maintain, work, possess, or deal in any wireless telegraphy apparatus for the usage of very low power radio frequency devices or equipment for Inductive Applications (including wireless charging through the inductive process) in the frequency band ranging from 9-90 kHz to 6765-6795 kHz.

“A major impetus will also be on the manufacturing of these devices or equipment for Inductive Applications under the country’s ambitious ‘Make in India’ initiative which will help innovation and build design capabilities,” said Mohindroo. Vishwadha