Should COAI Advocate for Transparent D2M Broadcasting Evaluations?
Synopsis
In a significant move, the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has urged authorities to adopt a transparent and inclusive framework for evaluating Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) broadcasting. This call for action emphasizes the need for comprehensive stakeholder participation to ensure the integrity and efficiency of India's broadcasting landscape.
Key Takeaways
COAI advocates for a transparent evaluation process.
Stakeholder participation is vital for credibility.
The implications of D2M broadcasting extend beyond technology.
Recent tests raised concerns about transparency and objectivity .
A comprehensive approach is needed for effective policy decisions.
New Delhi, Jan 5 (NationPress) The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has called upon the relevant authorities to adopt a transparent, consultative, and technology-neutral strategy for conducting technical evaluations concerning Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) broadcasting in India. The industry organization emphasized that the recent technical assessments conducted do not entirely match the framework proposed by the Government, advocating for a more inclusive and thorough evaluation process.
Lt. Gen. Dr. S.P. Kochhar, Director General of COAI, remarked, “Direct-to-Mobile broadcasting has significant implications for spectrum, networks, devices, and consumer safety.” He further stated, “Any national-level technical evaluation of such technology should be transparent, inclusive, and technology-neutral, ensuring the active participation of all relevant stakeholders.”
“COAI strongly believes that policy decisions of this scale must rely on comprehensive technical evaluations to ensure network integrity, efficient spectrum utilization, and sustainable digital advancement,” he added.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) recognized the potential implications during a stakeholder meeting in September 2025, directing that a comprehensive technical assessment of D2M be conducted with clearly defined Terms of Reference (ToR), participation from all relevant stakeholders, and inclusion of all alternative technology options, as indicated by the cellular association.
The association pointed out that the methodology employed in the recent D2M assessments raises significant concerns regarding transparency, procedural fairness, and objectivity.
The lack of stakeholder engagement—particularly from telecom operators, whose networks and spectrum assets are directly affected, as well as device OEMs—compromises the credibility of the conclusions reached from such assessments.
Additionally, the industry has expressed that the scope of the evaluations seems limited to a narrow set of parameters like interference and device heating, while omitting several crucial technical and ecosystem-related factors.
These factors include device certification requirements, electromagnetic field (EMF) compliance, regulatory and licensing ramifications, real-world usage scenarios, and the readiness of the device and chipset ecosystem.
Point of View
It is imperative to support COAI’s call for a transparent and inclusive evaluation process for D2M broadcasting. Engaging all stakeholders ensures that policy decisions are informed, balanced, and ultimately beneficial for the nation's digital future.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is COAI's main concern regarding D2M broadcasting evaluations?
COAI's primary concern is the lack of transparency and stakeholder participation in the recent technical evaluations for Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) broadcasting, which they believe undermines the credibility of the results.
Why is stakeholder participation important in D2M evaluations?
Stakeholder participation is crucial as it ensures that all affected parties, including telecom operators and device manufacturers, contribute their insights, which leads to more balanced and informed outcomes.
What are the potential implications of D2M broadcasting?
D2M broadcasting has significant implications for spectrum management, network infrastructure, device safety, and overall consumer experience in the digital landscape.
What did the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting direct regarding D2M evaluations?
The MIB directed that a comprehensive technical evaluation of D2M be conducted, emphasizing stakeholder participation and the inclusion of various technology options.
What aspects were overlooked in the recent D2M tests?
The recent tests focused narrowly on parameters like interference and device heating, neglecting critical factors such as electromagnetic field compliance and real-world usage scenarios.
