TRAI issues a Consultation Paper on Differential Pricing for Data Services- (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) (09 Dec 2015)

MANU/TRAI/0088/2015

Media and Communication

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India released a consultation paper on differential pricing for data services for comments. Differential pricing, or internet service providers allowing free or discounted access to certain websites, has been subject to widespread debate on ‘net neutrality’. Aside from recognizing the potential economic and regulatory effects of such an approach, TRAI cautions against a higher rate being charged for non-participating content. The report raises several issues, including whether differential pricing is allowable; principles that can be adopted to prevent discrimination against other content; and what alternatives may be available to differentiated tariff plans, which yet allow free internet access to consumers. The Report can be accessed here.

Tags : DIFFERENTIAL PRICING NET NEUTRALITY TRAI REPORT