India, Nov. 16 -- In an era defined by hyper-connectivity, digital dependence touches every facet of life and business in India. Against this backdrop, the introduction of the Telecommunications Act, 2023, marked a pivotal legislative moment, meant to modernise the legal framework that governs an industry central to India's digital ambitions. Yet, even with a refreshed framework, certain provisions have triggered deeper conversations around how the Act addresses national security, licensing and equitable competition.

Between 2021 and 2023, India's telecom sector experienced a surge that exposed the limitations of its legacy regulations. Gross revenue climbed from Rs 3.33 trillion in FY2022-23 to Rs 3.36 trillion in FY2023-24, while total...