DoT unveils easier norms for embedded SIM cards
18 May 2018
The Department of Telecom (DoT) has eased norms for users of embedded SIMs (eSIMs) who want to change a mobile service provider or buy a new connection without replacing an existing SIM card.
As per the new guidelines, embedded SIMs (eSIMs) can be installed in a device, and the details of service providers can be updated in it if the customer buys a new connection, changes operators, or wants to buy a standalone service from a telecom operator, such as data calling.
“To cater to the needs of modern technological developments in machine to machine (M2M) / Internet of Things (IoT), it has been decided to permit the use of eSIM, with both single and multiple profile configurations...” the DoT said.
It said operators may carry out their KYC while providing eSIMs.
The DoT has also issued instructions for SIMs that will be used for M2M communications, such as alerts sent from cars to mobiles over low fuel, faulty parts, car theft etc.
The norms were announced shortly after Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio started selling the Apple Watch Series 3, which has an eSIM.
The new norms aim at preparing all stakeholders, including the centre, the states, local self governments, telecom service providers, internet service providers, handset and equipment manufacturers, the academic community, the innovators and start-ups for the evolving technologies.
The national policy on digital communications proposes to prepare the country and its citizens for the future come together to forge a coalition to deliver this national policy and missions.
The draft National Digital Communications Policy, 2018 seeks to unlock the transformative power of digital communications networks — to achieve the goal of digital empowerment and well being of the people of India; and towards this end, attempts to outline a set of goals, initiatives, strategies and intended policy outcomes.
The National Communications Policy aims to accomplish the following Strategic Objectives by 2022:
- Provisioning of broadband for all;
- Creating 4 million additional jobs in the digital communications sector;
- Enhancing the contribution of the digital communications sector to 8 per cent of India’s GDP from around 6 per cent in 2017;
- Propelling India to the top 50 nations in the ICT Development Index of ITU from 134 in 2017;
- Enhancing India’s contribution to global value chains; and
- Ensuring digital .sovereignty
The policy aims at fulfilling the information and communication needs of citizens and enterprises by establishment of a ubiquitous, resilient, secure and affordable digital communications infrastructure and services; and in the process, support India’s transition to a digitally empowered economy and society.