11 January 2023

It’s been reported that Indian government plans to suggest winding up the Digital Communications Commission (DCC), described as the highest decision-making body of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

The DCC, set up as the Telecom Commission in April 1989 with administrative and financial powers to deal with various aspects of telecommunications, is chaired by the telecom secretary but is reportedly losing relevance as most of the critical matters are now taken to cabinet for approval.

Removing the DCC could increase efficiencies (notably by avoiding duplication) and speed up decision making, something that can be delayed when some DCC members are absent from important meetings.

The DCC is responsible for formulating the policy of DoT for approval of the Government, preparing the budget for DoT for each financial year and getting it approved and for implementation of government's policy in all matters concerning telecommunication.