New Delhi, Jan. 13 -- The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has submitted a set of recommendations to the government ahead of the Union Budget 2026-27, calling for a reduction in regulatory levies and reforms in Goods and Services Tax (GST) to ease the financial stress on the telecom sector.

COAI, the industry body representing telecom service providers, said the proposed measures are aimed at enabling further expansion of digital infrastructure and accelerating the rollout of next-generation connectivity in line with the vision of a Viksit Bharat.

A key demand relates to the reduction of regulatory levies.

Lt Gen Dr SP Kochhar, Director General, COAI, noted that the current License Fee, comprising a 3% levy on Adjusted Gr...