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  • Best Term Insurance Plan for ₹2 Crore & How to Use a Calculator

    Best Term Insurance Plan for ₹2 Crore & How to Use a Calculator

    MUMBAI: Future planning is necessary. One easy method of securing the financial future of your family is by taking a term insurance plan. Term insurance is a type of life cover that provides a sum assured to your family if anything untoward happens to you. But how much cover do you actually require? And how do you determine the correct plan? A term plan calculator is what you need help with it. It is a quick online calculator that assists you in verifying the appropriate insurance coverage for your family without an estimate.

    A term plan calculator would typically request some simple information, such as your age, income, and loans you have. If you enter these, it comes up with an estimate of the insurance cover you might require. This makes it simpler to select a plan that safeguards your family appropriately without spending extra money. It is like having a mentor to make wise choices for your family’s future.

    What is Term Insurance?

    Term insurance is a pure life insurance policy. Contrary to other policies that offer both investment and insurance, a term policy covers you only for life. In case you die during the policy duration, your family receives the sum assured. This amount can be used to cover daily expenses, education for children, or paying off loans.

    Term plans are typically not expensive relative to other life insurance policies. Because it doesn’t have investment or savings elements, a large portion of your premium is used in offering life cover. This is the reason why numerous individuals look towards the best term insurance plan for 2 crore when they need large coverage without having to pay much.

    Why Choose a ₹2 Crore Term Plan?

    A ₹2 crore term plan provides your family with a solid financial cushion. Life is unpredictable, and expenditure can unexpectedly go up. A significant cover like ₹2 crore can help ensure that your family can live life as usual and cover significant expenses like higher education for children, housing loans, or prolonged medical expenses, even when you are not there.

    Selecting the most appropriate term insurance policy for 2 crore depends on more than just the coverage amount. You should also look at the reputation of the insurance company, claim settlement ratio, policy term choices, and premium costs. A good policy should be easy to comprehend, inexpensive, and trustworthy.

    How to Use a Term Plan Calculator 

    It is very easy to use a term plan calculator. Insurance firms and comparison sites mostly offer it for free. Here is how you can do it in a few steps:

    . Enter Your Age and Gender: Your gender and age have an influence on your premium. Young individuals generally pay less as there is less risk.

    .  Add Your Income: Your income decides your family’s future financial requirements. Add your monthly income and any other sources.

    . Include Liabilities: If you have outstanding loans such as home loans, car loans, or personal loans, include them. The cover should be sufficient to settle these loans.

    .  Consider Your Family Needs: Consider your children’s education, the living expenses of your spouse, and other long-term objectives.

    .  Check the Recommended Cover: The calculator will recommend an amount assured depending on your details. This will lead you to select a plan that suits your family requirements.

    Using a calculator, you eliminate guesswork and can concentrate on choosing the plan that offers coverage and affordability.

    What to Look for in the Best Term Insurance Plan 

    While selecting a term plan, ensure that you verify certain features that make a policy trustworthy and worthwhile:

    . High Claim Settlement Ratio: It indicates how frequently the insurance company settles claims. A high ratio indicates better possibilities of seamless claim settlement.

    . Flexible Policy Term: Select a term that suits your family’s requirements. Longer terms give you longer protection.

    . Premium Payment Options: A few plans allow you to pay annually, half-yearly, quarterly, or monthly. Flexibility in payment simplifies it.

    . Optional Riders: Riders are additional benefits that you can include, like critical illness cover, accidental death cover, or waiver of premium. They add to your policy without purchasing additional insurance.

    . Transparency: The policy must be clear and concise, not having complicated terms or hidden clauses.

    Factors Influencing Your Term Plan Premium 

    Term insurance premiums are based on various factors. Knowing these can help you plan:

    .  Age: People younger than you typically pay less.

    .  Health: Your lifestyle and past health conditions count. Smokers and those who take poor care of their health may pay more.

    .  Occupation: Hazardous occupations might raise premiums.

    .  Policy Term and Sum Assured: The longer the term and the higher the coverage, the more expensive it is.

    .  Riders: Optional riders add to the premium.

    Using these points in mind while applying for a term plan calculator means that the calculated premium will be very much like the actual premium.

    Common Myths About Term Insurance 

    There are a couple of myths that make individuals reluctant to purchase term plans. Let’s dispel them:

    . “I am young and healthy; I don’t need insurance.” Life is full of surprises. Purchasing young and healthy can secure lower premiums.

    .  “Term plans are costly.” In fact, term plans are one of the cheapest types of insurance.

    .  “It’s just like any other insurance plan.” Unlike investment-linked plans, term insurance is all about protection. This keeps things easy and efficient.

    .  “I don’t need a big cover.” A big sum assured protects your family from significant financial risks, such as loans and future education expenses.

    How to Select the Best Term Plan 

    It is simpler to select the right term plan if you go through some steps:

    . Utilize a Term Plan Calculator: This provides a good calculation of the cover that you require.

    . Compare Plans: Compare various plans for premium, coverage, and benefits.

    . Verify the Company Reputation: Check the claim settlement ratio and reviews.

    . Read the Policy Document: Read the terms, conditions, and exclusions carefully.

    .  Add Riders if Required: Add additional benefits if they are suitable for your family’s needs.

    By following these steps, you will receive a policy that not only suits your pocket but also offers genuine protection.

    Advantages of a ₹2 Crore Term Plan 

    A ₹2 crore term plan can bring numerous advantages:

    .  Financial Security: Guarantees your family can afford current and future expenses.

    .  Debt Repayment: Repays home loans, car loans, or personal loans.

    .  Education Expenses: Covers children’s higher studies.

    .  Low Premiums: Pure term plans are usually very low cost even for high cover levels.

    .  Tax Savings: Premiums paid are tax deductible under Section 80C, and the death benefit is free of tax under Section 10(10D).

    Final Tips for Selecting Term Insurance

    .  Plan early; lower age translates to lower premiums.

    .  Select a cover that insures all family expenses, not debts alone.

    .  Utilize a term plan calculator to arrive at a definite estimate.

    .  Regularly go through your policy and change it if your finances undergo a change.

    .  Always carefully read the small letters before signing.

    Conclusion

    A term insurance policy is an easy yet effective tool to safeguard your family’s financial well-being. It is simpler to get the correct cover when using a term plan calculator and avoiding guesswork. The best term insurance plan of 2 crore can provide your family with the security and comfort they deserve even after you are gone. Don’t forget, it is not only about the money; it is also about peace of mind for you and your family. Act now, determine your needs, and select the plan that suits your life and finances. Your family’s future is worth every step you take today.

  • Is It Time to Renew Your Car Insurance? Key Factors to Consider Before You Renew ?

    Is It Time to Renew Your Car Insurance? Key Factors to Consider Before You Renew ?

    Renewing your car insurance policy is essential to remain financially secure against unforeseen events like accidents or theft. With the convenience of online car insurance renewal, the process has become faster and more accessible. However, many car owners overlook critical factors during renewal, leading to unnecessary costs or inadequate coverage. This blog highlights key considerations for a smooth and informed car insurance renewal experience.

    Why Timely Renewal is Essential?

    Driving without a valid car insurance policy is illegal and exposes you to significant financial risks. Under the Motor Vehicles Act 2019, driving without insurance attracts penalties of up to INR 2,000 for the first offence and INR 4,000 for subsequent offences, along with possible imprisonment of up to 3 months. However, suspension of the driving license is not explicitly stated as a penalty for this violation. Beyond legal issues, an expired policy leaves you unprotected against damages to your vehicle or third-party liabilities, creating potential out-of-pocket expenses.

    The Ideal Time to Renew

    Renewing your car insurance within the last 45 days of its validity is advisable to avoid lapses. This window gives you ample time to review your current policy, compare alternatives, and make any adjustments based on your current needs. If you miss the renewal deadline, insurers typically offer a grace period of 15 to 30 days. The 90-day period generally applies to retaining the No Claim Bonus (NCB), not the grace period itself. Keep in mind that renewing during the grace period may attract additional charges.

    Key Factors to Consider Before Renewal

    Renewing your car insurance is a vital step in ensuring uninterrupted financial protection and compliance with legal requirements. To make the most of your renewal, it’s essential to evaluate various aspects of your policy to secure comprehensive coverage that suits your current needs.

    1. Review Your Current Policy

    When opting for online car insurance renewal, renewing the same policy without reviewing the details is tempting. However, your coverage needs may have changed over time.

    What to Do:

    ●  Check the existing policy’s coverage, including third-party liability and comprehensive benefits.  
    ●  Assess whether the add-ons you previously selected are still relevant to your current situation. For instance, a Passenger Cover may not be necessary if you travel alone.

    2. Insured Declared Value (IDV)

    The IDV represents the maximum amount your insurer will pay if your car is stolen or totalled. A lower IDV reduces your premium but may leave you underinsured, while a higher IDV increases the premium unnecessarily.

    What to Do:

    ●  Use a car insurance calculator to Understand that IDV is calculated based on standard depreciation rates set by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). Policyholders can only select from a range of values within the insurer’s preset guidelines.

    3. No Claim Bonus (NCB)

    The NCB is a discount offered for every claim-free policy period, potentially reducing your premium by up to 50%. Many policyholders forget to apply this during renewal.

    What to Do:

    ●  Confirm that your NCB has been transferred or applied correctly. Keep in mind that the maximum NCB discount of 50% is typically applicable after five consecutive claim-free years. NCB cannot be transferred during mid-policy renewals or grace periods.

    4. Compare Policies Online

    Sticking with your current insurer without exploring alternatives may result in missed opportunities for better coverage or lower premiums.

    What to Do:

    ●  Compare different online car insurance renewal options from various insurers. Look for discounts, better add-on covers, and customer service reviews.

    5. Add-On Covers

    Add-ons such as zero depreciation, engine protection, and roadside assistance offered by insurers can significantly enhance your car insurance policy by providing additional financial security.

    What to Do:

    ●  Evaluate the relevance of each add-on based on your current needs and driving habits.  
    ●  Remove add-ons that no longer align with your requirements to avoid unnecessary costs.  
    ●  Remember that certain add-ons, such as zero depreciation, are typically available only for vehicles up to 5-7 years old.

    6. Update Personal Information

    Outdated personal details, such as an old address or phone number, can lead to complications during claim settlements.

    What to Do:

    ●  Ensure your details are updated during the renewal process.

    Benefits of Renewing Car Insurance Online

    Renewing car insurance online offers several advantages, including:

    ●  Convenience: The process can be completed in a few clicks without physical paperwork or visits.  
    ●  Cost Savings: Online platforms often provide exclusive online savings.  
    ●  Transparency: You can compare policies, add-ons, and premiums before deciding.  
    ●  Quick Assistance: Insurers like Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company provide 24×7 call assistance and instant updates via SMS, ensuring seamless claim support.

    Tips to Save Money on Your Renewal

    Saving money on your car insurance renewal doesn’t have to mean compromising on coverage. By being proactive and making informed decisions, you can reduce costs while maintaining comprehensive protection.

    1.  Choose Higher Deductibles: Opting for a higher voluntary deductible can lower your premium. It will also increase your out-of-pocket expenses during claims.  
    2.  Install Anti-Theft Devices: Many insurers offer discounts for cars equipped with certified anti-theft systems.  
    3.  Leverage NCBx: Maximise your NCB to reduce premium costs.  
    4.  Opt for Online Policies: Direct-to-customer digital insurers often offer better rates.

    Common Mistakes to Avoid

    ●  Ignoring Policy Details: Renewing without reviewing coverage may result in paying for unnecessary features.  
    ●  Forgetting Add-On Relevance: Continuing with irrelevant add-ons increases your premium without added value.  
    ●  Delaying Renewal: Missing deadlines could lead to policy lapse, legal issues, and higher costs.  
    ●  Overlooking Discounts: Many miss out on offers that could reduce renewal costs.

    Final Thoughts

    Renewing your car insurance policy is a critical step in ensuring financial protection and legal compliance. By choosing online car insurance renewal, you not only simplify the process but also unlock opportunities to customise your coverage to fit your needs.

    Take the time to review your existing policy, compare options, and make necessary adjustments to maximise benefits and minimise costs. A little attention to detail can go a long way in ensuring peace of mind and hassle-free driving.

    *Standard T&C Apply

    Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.

    Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under the motor insurance policy.

  • ANI lawsuit against OpenAI for copyright infringement

    ANI lawsuit against OpenAI for copyright infringement

    MUMBAI: Cheating may seem harmless until the consequences come crashing down—a classic case of “play stupid games, win stupid prizes”.

    Imagine the titan of artificial intelligence, the very force reshaping our understanding of innovation, now standing accused of stepping over the ethical boundaries it once sought to redefine.

    With a jaw-dropping market cap of $157 billion as of October 2024, OpenAI—the so-called savior of human progress—is now grappling with a high-stakes copyright infringement lawsuit filed by Asian News International (ANI) in India.

    This legal clash, steeped in complexity and a touch of irony, pits the ambitions of cutting-edge AI against the enduring principles of intellectual property rights. Could this be a case of progress overstepping its bounds? Or a necessary infringement in the name of human advancement?

    ANI has taken OpenAI to court, accusing the tech giant of unauthorised use of its copyrighted content to train its large language model (LLM). The case not only raises pressing questions about copyright infringement and fair use but also dives deep into the murky waters of territoriality and intellectual property in the age of artificial intelligence. The stakes? Nothing less than the future of AI innovation and creators’ rights in one of the world’s fastest-growing digital economies.

    ANI accused OpenAI of using its copyrighted material without permission and highlighted the inadequacy of OpenAI’s opt-out policy, which ANI claims fails to prevent its content from being scraped through third-party websites. ANI also alleged that OpenAI’s models produced outputs either verbatim or substantially similar to its copyrighted content, further compounding the copyright violation. Additionally, ANI flagged fabricated responses generated by ChatGPT that falsely attributed interviews or news stories to the news agency.

    OpenAI defended its practices by citing fair use, which permits limited use of copyrighted material under specific conditions. It argued that its models do not reproduce content verbatim and that it sufficiently transforms language to comply with copyright exceptions. On fabricated responses, OpenAI stated it resolved issues flagged by ANI and committed to addressing such problems promptly in the future.

    ANI is seeking an interim injunction to prevent OpenAI from storing, publishing, or reproducing its content and has requested a prohibition on accessing ANI’s material through any channel, including subscribers. OpenAI countered by asserting that no legal action could apply within India, as its data processing and model training occur outside the country, with no offices or servers in India.

    The lawsuit brings two critical issues to the forefront: the balance between copyright infringement and fair use, and the challenges of territoriality in data storage. India’s existing copyright law lacks explicit provisions regarding AI training, making the applicability of fair use a grey area. Moreover, the absence of text and data mining (TDM) provisions complicates the country’s approach to fostering innovation while safeguarding content creators’ rights.

    The territoriality argument further underscores complexities in applying local laws to global AI platforms. Data sovereignty issues arise as distributed AI models utilise data generated in India but processed across international cloud environments, challenging traditional legal frameworks.

    Globally, AI platforms and news publishers have clashed over the use of copyrighted material. While some publishers have entered licensing agreements with AI firms, others, such as The New York Times, have pursued legal action. ANI’s lawsuit reflects a broader struggle over how GenAI platforms interact with intellectual property.

    India’s policymakers face the task of balancing innovation in AI with content creators’ rights. A permissionless innovation approach, which allows experimentation with new technologies while addressing harms retrospectively, may provide a pathway for advancing AI while protecting intellectual property.

    This lawsuit will likely serve as a landmark case in determining the accountability of AI developers for content generated by their platforms. As the first legal action of its kind in India, the outcome will influence how AI platforms navigate copyright, fair use, and territorial regulations in the country.

  • CNBC-TV18 business leader big bash kicks off 7 December 2025 in Mumbai

    CNBC-TV18 business leader big bash kicks off 7 December 2025 in Mumbai

    MUMBAI: Who are the corporate executives and individuals who helped shape the business landscape in India in 2024?

    Many a media outlet has its own list that they felicitate and recognise with a nice little ceremony.  English business news leader CNBC-TV18 is all set to present and celebrate its  crop  of  leaders that its  crack editorial teams and jury consider as shining  stars through the CNBC-TV18 India Business Leader Awards (IBLA). 

    Presented by Standard Chartered Bank, the awards are returning for the twentieth edition on 7 December 2024 in Mumbai. The theme ‘Leadership in Action, means that executives who embody conviction, innovation, and purposeful disruption will be felicitated. The IBLA , needless to say, brings together such visionary leaders, honouring their resilience, foresight, and ability to inspire transformative impact.

    The awards evening will be an exceptional gathering of influential figures from the business, economic, policy, and cultural spheres, such as minister of road transport & highways Nitin Gadkari,  minister of commerce and industry Piyush Goyal;  DLF chairman emeritus KP Singh; Serum Institute of India founder Cyrus Poonawalla ; Bharat Forge CMD Babasaheb N. Kalyani;  Aditya Birla group chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla; Tube Investments of India (TII) executive vice-chairman and Cholamandalam (Chola) Investment & Finance chairman Vellayan Subbiah; ; Blinkit founder Albinder Dhindsa; Bajaj Auto managing director Rajiv Bajaj; SBI chairman Challa Sreenivasulu Setty;  Standard Chartered Bank CEO, India & south Asia Zarin Daruwala,; Indian actor Rajkummar Rao; Kotak Mahindra Bank MD & CEO Ashok Vaswani; Federal Bank managing director & CEO  KVS Manian; JSW Steel jt MD & CEO Jayant Acharya;  Piramal group chairman Ajay Piramal and Akasa Air  founder  & CEO Vinay Dube. 

    CNBC-TV18 managing editor Shereen Bhan said, “IBLA is more than just an awards ceremony – it is a tribute to those who have not only envisioned change but have taken bold steps to turn it into reality. As we celebrate CNBC-TV18’s 25-year legacy in business news journalism, the twentieth edition of IBLA marks a significant milestone in our journey of honouring leadership that drives transformation. The theme ‘Leadership in Action,’ reflects our enduring commitment to celebrating individuals who inspire generations and shape the future of our economy.”

    Network18 CEO – English & business news, Smriti Mehra added, “Over the past two decades, IBLA has established itself as the definitive platform for recognising the visionary leaders who have been instrumental in shaping India’s economic growth. We deeply value our longstanding partnership with Standard Chartered Bank. Their continued support has been crucial in elevating the scale and prestige of this iconic event year after year.”

    Know more about the 20th edition of CNBC-TV18 India Business Leader Awards: https://www.cnbctv18.com/ibla

  • TRAI’s audit debate unveils industry turmoil

    TRAI’s audit debate unveils industry turmoil

    MUMBAI: What happens when expectations collide with cold, hard realities? The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) latest open house discussion (OHD) on the audit clauses of the Interconnection Regulations, 2017, pulled back the curtain on a brewing storm. A room teeming with stakeholders—digital platform operators, broadcasters, and industry leaders—revealed not just simmering discontent but also deep cracks in the system. Amid heated debates, calls for stricter penalties for defaulters clashed with the ongoing struggle to implement regulations effectively, leaving behind a mixed trail of frustration, hope, and hard questions.

    The discussion, which saw limited participation from broadcasters, revealed persistent gaps in compliance. All India Digital Cable Federation (AIDCF) secretary general, Manoj Chhangani called for stringent action against non-compliant multi-system operators (MSOs). “Broadcasters should be strictly prohibited from providing TV signals to MSOs who fail to conduct audits,” he asserted, suggesting public disclosure of defaulters on broadcasters’ websites.

    Siti Networks head of legal and regulatory department, Girish Bhuttan echoed Chhangani’s sentiment, advocating financial penalties and potential license cancellation for repeat offenders. However, Bhuttan expressed scepticism about the lack of enforcement, stating, “We have not seen any action against those not implementing these provisions. If not enforced, these rules lose their significance.”

    On the other hand, Consumer Care Society secretary, Gopal Ratnam cautioned against moves that might affect consumers, terming them “anti-consumer”. Ratnam predicted legal challenges if broadcasters disconnected signals for non-compliance.

    Broadcasters criticised the lack of transparency and enforcement, citing a history of excuses from DPOs, ranging from software issues to falsified audit reports. An industry veteran noted that 90 per cent of audits were either incomplete or improperly conducted in the past five years. “Denying or delaying audits is akin to saying, ‘Take the product and forget about it’”, the veteran said.

    Broadcasters also raised concerns over the quality of audit personnel, with many reports prepared by inexperienced trainees. To address this, the Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation (IBDF) proposed giving broadcasters primary rights to conduct DPO audits. “This would reduce the burden on smaller DPOs and ensure greater transparency,” said IBDF secretary, Radhakrishnan Nair.

    Industry participants emphasised the need for a structured approach to audits, better training for auditors, and stricter penalties for non-compliance. While some suggested collaboration with TRAI to refine the framework, others expressed doubts about the efficacy of current recommendations.

    As the discussion concluded, broadcasters reiterated the necessity of reforms to safeguard their revenues and maintain system integrity. With TRAI planning an open house discussion to finalise recommendations, the industry remains divided on how to balance enforcement with consumer interests.

  • Why did government retract Data Protection Bill

    Why did government retract Data Protection Bill

    Mumbai: Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has withdrawn the Data Protection Bill from Lok Sabha on 3 August 2022. The centre will review the policy and come up with a ‘comprehensive legal framework’ for regulating online data privacy. The new regulation on data protection will help the overall internet ecosystem, safeguard against cybercrime, and secure non-personal data.

    The Data Protection Bill was first introduced on 11 December 2019. The bill was referred to the Joint Committee of the Houses for examination on 16 December 2021 & later, the committee presented the report in the Lok Sabha. The joint parliamentary committee raised concerns and provided 93 recommendations that explain why the government cannot invade one’s privacy. The government will introduce the new regulation during the winter session of the parliament this year.

    Why did political parties oppose the bill?

    In 2019, the opposition parties such as Congress and Trinamool Congress vehemently protested against this bill as it violated the fundamental rights of the citizens. The opposition believed that the bill provided power to the government to access the personal data of individuals, and it lacked transparency and was opaque.

    It is imperative to provide adequate protection to people on their privacy rights. Currently, India is the fastest growing data-generation nation in the world with over 700 million Internet users and more than 400 million smartphone users.

    Which data can the government have access to?

    Data is usually generated through four sources such as personal data, bank accounts data, medical records and employment data. Other data is generated from web searches and visits to any web portals. The data helps to understand and identify people’s choices, preferences and histories.

    It is also generated through a cache that comes from social media posts, tweets, phone calls, emails and videos. It is also generated through coordinates from the real-time location. Stacks of data are also collected from one’s spending patterns when an individual purchases online, via modes of payment used, and transactions made through payment gateways.

    It is that personal data many individuals would like to keep private and the government exercising control on accessing it- is a serious matter of concern. There needs to be a mechanism and policy in place to process such data without breaching people’s trust and protecting its safety & security.

  • Barc allows broadcasters to suspend channel data in updated policy

    Barc allows broadcasters to suspend channel data in updated policy

    Mumbai: The Broadcast Audience Research Council (Barc) has updated its policy for the release of a channel’s viewership data in March. As per the new policy, Barc can facilitate the suspension of individual channel data for a minimum period of six months on request from the broadcaster. 

    “The ratings for the suspended period will not be released publicly at any point in the future, even after the recommencement of the ratings,” as per the policy.

    Barc will also exercise its right to suspend the ratings of a channel in case of payment issues, non-renewal of subscription, or any other breach by the subscriber. The ratings of the suspended channel will only be released six months after the resolution of the issues that resulted in the discontinuation of services. The ratings during the suspended period will not be released publicly after recommencement of the channel ratings.

    However, Barc may continue to monitor and deliver playout monitoring of the channel to other YUMI subscribers without the viewership data.

    Barc India has stated that it requires a minimum period of four to eight weeks to perform the required technical checks and data validation before releasing a channel’s data publicly. Barc has also requested broadcasters to keep a significant lead time for the watermarking process which may take between eight to 12 weeks time.

     A channel can avail channel level viewership data provided by Barc but data that is provided prior to the public release of ratings of the channel is confidential and may be used for internal analysis only. Barc follows that Saturday to Friday week format and releases data publicly via the YUMI software every Thursday.

    Barc will no longer release data starting from midweek and broadcasters must inform Barc about the date from which the data is required to be released ten working days prior to the week of release. If Barc does not receive a request to release channel data in YUMI within 12 weeks of being watermarked, Barc India may stop monitoring the channel and capturing the viewership of the channel.

  • DoT addresses broadband issues in policy out for public consultation

    DoT addresses broadband issues in policy out for public consultation

    MUMBAI: The Indian government is exploring renaming/replacing the National Telecom Policy (NTP) 2018 as the National Digital Communications Policy, which will aim to have increased synergies amongst ministries of telecom, IT and I&B.

    What the new draft policy, seeking public comments, does not look at is trying to make TRAI the converged regulator as had been suggested by TRAI in its feedback to the government on formulation of NTP 2018.

    Some of the important recommendations are:

    “Leveraging existing assets of the broadcasting and power sector to improve connectivity, affordability and sustainability”

    “Strengthening Satellite Communication Technologies in India
    (a) Review the regulatory regime for satellite communication technologies, including: 

    i. Revising licensing and regulatory conditions that limit the use of satellite communications, such as speed barriers, band allocation, etc.
    ii. Simplifying compliance requirements for VSAT operators to ensure faster roll out
    iii. Expanding scope of permissible services under the Unified Licensing regime using High Throughput Satellite communication systems

    (b) Optimise Satellite communications technologies in India, by: 

    i. Reviewing SATCOM policy for communication services, along with Department of Space, keeping in view international developments and social and economic needs of the country
    ii. Making available additional transponders and new spectrum bands (such as Ka band) for satellite-based commercial communication services
    iii. Rationalizing satellite transponder, spectrum charges and charges payable to WPC
    iv. Assessing the bandwidth demands across various spectrum bands used for satellite communications, in consultation with stakeholders
    v. Prioritising international engagement with ITU on spectrum management issues, specifically with respect to satellite communications in India

    (c) Develop an ecosystem for satellite communications in India, with focus on: 

    i. Streamlining administrative processes for assignment and allocations, clearances and permissions related to satellite communication systems
    ii. Promoting local manufacturing and development of satellite communications related infrastructure through appropriate policies
    iii. Promoting participation of private players, with due regard to national security and sovereignty”

    “Enabling Infrastructure Convergence of IT, telecom and broadcasting sectors:

    i. Amending the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and other relevant acts for the purpose of convergence in coordination with respective ministries
    ii. Establishing a unified policy framework and spectrum management regime for broadcast and broadband technologies
    iii. Restructuring of legal, licensing and regulatory frameworks for reaping the benefits of convergence”

    “Enabling unbundling of different layers (e.g. infrastructure, network, services and applications layer) through differential licensing”

    “Fostering an Intellectual Property Rights regime that promotes innovation, by:

    i. Implementing key recommendations in the National IPR Policy pertaining to Digital Communications, including a review of the legal regime around copyright, patents and trade marks
    ii. Assisting start-ups in filing copyright, patent and trademarks applications
    iii. Providing financial incentives for the development of Standard Essential Patents (SEPs) in the field of digital communications technologies
    iv. Promoting Indian IPR through international collaborations and active participation in standard development processes and IPR related events”

    “Recognising the need to uphold the core principles of net neutrality:

    i. Amending the license agreements to incorporate the principles of non-discriminatory treatment of content, along with appropriate exclusions and exceptions as necessary
    ii. Ensuring compliance with net neutrality principles, by introducing appropriate disclosure and transparency requirements”

    There are three aims- first is to connect India digitally, second is to propel India by using technologies like 5G, AI and IoT and third is to secure India which will enable the security of people’s privacy, security, data etc.

    After the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal, the government will amend licences and terms and conditions to incorporate provisions for privacy and data security.

    This apart, the government aims to establish five million public wi-fi spots by 2020 and 10 million by 2022. It will also amend the Indian Telegraph Act to converge IT, telecom and broadcasting sectors.

    The government will re-look at the fees it levies at various places to enable investment of $100 billion in the digital communications sector. It will also revisit spectrum usage charges where telecom providers currently pay 3-6 per cent of adjusted gross revenue as fees. Licence fee is 8 per cent of the same.

    The Telecom Commission has also accepted the recommendations of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India regarding a new framework for public data offices for setting up public wi-fi hotspots where people can purchase telecom or internet services in sachet-sized packets starting at Rs 2.

    Also Read :

    BSNL inks deals with SoftBank-backed OneWeb for satellite capacity 

    DEN expands broadband services; plans Rs 100 cr capex

    Zee, Star, NBA oppose converged regulator for broadcast and telecoms

  • ICICI Prudential ties up with Konkana Sen for critical illness cover

    ICICI Prudential ties up with Konkana Sen for critical illness cover

    MUMBAI: ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has launched a new multimedia brand campaign to highlight the superiority of its top-selling term plan iProtect Smart.

    The campaign highlights the fact that the product not only offers life cover that secures one’s family but also gives an option to cover oneself from 34 critical illnesses, thus making it an ultimate protection plan.

    The campaign, which comprises a TV commercial as well as digital, cinema, outdoor media and others, will showcase how iProtect Smart, a term life cover plan also offers a living benefit for the policyholder – a 34 critical illness cover which provides the claim amount upfront on detection without any bills or hospitalisation. The policy is targeted at individuals from 25 to 50 years of age. 

    ICICI Prudential Life has partnered with actress Konkona Sen Sharma for the campaign where she will be seen communicating the product superiority and value proposition to help consumers understand why iProtect Smart is the right insurance product for their financial security needs. 

    ICICI Prudential Life Insurance executive director Puneet Nanda says, “iProtect Smart is a unique term plan that strikes the right balance between health and protection in one policy and a life cover for family’s security and also an option to cover oneself against 34 critical illnesses.”

  • Column-Policy Cross-Connections

    Column-Policy Cross-Connections

    Point 1: With over 1.2 billion population, India is a dream market for any product or service. In short, a land of opportunities.

    Point 2: Despite economic liberalisation started in early 1990s and followed through by successive governments, including the present one in New Delhi, India is still termed a challenging market.

    Just like any other sector, India’s INR 1,157 billion media and entertainment (M&E) industry too gets affected by the two aforementioned points.

    That the M&E industry holds immense potential can be easily seen in various crystal-ball gazing done.

    Indian Government Economic Survey 2016, an annual report card for Indian economy released every February, states the M&E recorded “unprecedented growth” over the last two decades making it one of the fastest growing industries in India. It is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.9 percent to reach INR 1964 billion by 2019, the Survey states, adding digital advertising and gaming are projected to drive the growth of this sector in the coming years.

    The FICCI-KPMG annual report on Indian M&E sector, released in March, also reiterates the optimism. According to the report, the sector is expected to be worth INR 2,260 billion by 2020 and the advertising sector grew by 14.7 percent from INR 414 billion in 2014 to INR 475 billion in 2015.

    But then what’s holding back big bang investments not only from Indian investors but also foreign ones? Especially when China, the only other market in Asia that outstrips India in terms of size and opportunities, is mostly closed for foreign investors with stringent rules relating to M&E sectors.

    My theory is that despite successive governments from 1990 (it was in 1991 that economic liberalisation was set in motion in India and Indians also got exposed to satellite TV in few years from then) following up on that, full benefits have failed to accrue to the country. Reason? Various liberalisation processes and easing norms of doing business get enmeshed with other policy decisions— some taken in isolation — thereby continuing to make India a challenging market.

    Take, for example, the much talked about government step in June in liberalising FDI investment norms for various sectors, including media, defence, pharmaceuticals and retail.

    FDI policy on broadcasting carriage services as of June 2016

     

    Sector/Activity

    New Cap and Route

    5.2.7.1.1

    (1)Teleports(setting up of up-linking Hubs/Teleports);

    (2)Direct to Home (DTH);

    (3)Cable Networks (Multi System operators (MSOs) operating at National or State or District level and undertaking upgradation of networks towards digitalization and addressability);

    (4)Mobile TV;

    (5)Headend-in-the Sky Broadcasting Service(HITS)

    100%

     

    Automatic

    5.2.7.1.2 Cable Networks (Other MSOs not undertaking upgradation of networks towards digitalization and addressability and Local Cable Operators (LCOs))

    Infusion of fresh foreign investment, beyond 49% in a company not seeking license/permission from sectoral Ministry, resulting in change in the ownership pattern or transfer of stake by existing investor to new foreign investor, will require FIPB approval

    (Source: Commerce Ministry)

     

    The government in June said that FDI in all broadcast carriage services like cable, MSO, DTH, mobile TV, HITS have been upped to 100 percent and brought under automatic route, which means bureaucratic and lengthy permission processes have been lessened.

    Small caveat in automatic route investment norms notwithstanding, Indian companies and foreign investors should have been popping the champagne bottles. But industry reactions were sober to the extent of being subdued.

    General analysis of the aforementioned decision, in short, was: the government took a big step, but not a giant one. Why?

    According to government data, total FDI flow into India since April 2000 to December 2015 stood at US$ 408.68 billion. But the media sector’s share of FDI inflows from 2000-2015 was pegged at $4.48 billion.

    Considering the burgeoning media industry and newer technologies coming in, this sector’s share of FDI during this 15-year period should have been higher.

    So, why are foreign investors hesitant in investing in India, especially when PM Modi’s dream of Digital India can dovetail into building digital infrastructure capable of delivering many media services?

    The federal government may be trying its best to ease norms of doing business in India and live up to its claim of ‘India being a fav destination for foreign investors’, other proposed and existing policy decisions not only send out confused signals, but, actually, create more impediments.

    Take, for example, broadcast carriage regulator TRAI’s two discussion papers on infrastructure sharing in TV broadcasting distribution and  set-top-box interoperability .
    TRAI’s contentions for floating these discussion subjects are to explore avenues to reduce expenditure of companies providing these services by doing away with duplication (in the first case) and examine whether interoperable STBs can largely benefit the consumers.

    Critics of both these TRAI discussion subjects opine that if followed through and converted into regulations, both measures could add another layer of restrictions on the industry.

    Hong Kong-based Asian media industry organisation CASBAA, which also has Indian members, doesn’t mince words when it said in its submission on STB interoperability that the TRAI paper was based on a “number of untested, unproven presuppositions concerning the practice of technical interoperability”.

    Countering TRAI assertions, CASBAA said, “Regulator-imposed technical interoperability requirements will impose very large burdens on Indian consumers and industry players and risk stifling innovation in development of new features of interest to consumers.”

    If a holistic view is taken of both the TRAI consultations, surprisingly aimed at bringing down media services to a common denominator having little USPs, it’s no wonder the likes of Comcast and Liberty Media or closer home the Hong Kong-headquartered PCCW, for instance, have not been enthused much to invest in Indian broadcast carriage segment despite FDI norms liberalisation and a whopping over 100 million TV homes still on the plate.

    It’s not only TRAI, but also the general layout of the taxation and financial environment, apart from other cross-media restrictions, which would deter foreign investors.

    A DTH service provider in India, for example, on an average pays 40 percent tax, including an annual 10 percent licence fee, while ARPUs range between INR 175-220 for most of the six DTH companies. Why would AT&T, parent company of American DirecTV, invest in a DTH operation in India?

    Or, for that matter, why would Comcast or PCCW invest in Indian cable TV distribution when a large number of LCO operations are still far from transparent?

    Add to that a slowing down of the digital rollout — the earlier two phases of the proposed four-phased digitisation of TV services did manage to bring about increased transparency resulting in higher tax revenues for the government — and you have a pitch that’s not conducive for fair foreign investment game.

    Singapore-based market media market research company Media Partners Asia estimates approximately $2 billion has been invested by strategic and foreign institutional investors in Indian pay-TV distribution platforms, which certainly is peanuts considering  over 250 million TV homes are target consumers.

    If confusing policy signals were not enough, stellar performer ISRO’s new-found love for Make In India and resultant insistence on weaning away all Indian users of satellite-based services from foreign satellites to INSAT — informal as of now but gaining currency — is also fodder to scare a foreign investor as such moves smack of throwback to pre-90s when India was dubbed a closed market and not an open economy.

    That’s why, I would insist, till systematic changes are brought about in the country and various government organisations and regulators also see the big picture on regulations instead of functioning within their own small islands, attempts by any Indian government to make India the most favoured destination for foreign investments will not bear ripened fruit. And, in the process, full benefits won’t accrue to the consumers.

    (1 USD= INR 67)

    (Anjan Mitra is Consulting Editor of Indiantelevision.com and will write a fortnightly column on media matters.)