| Level | Level of service | Services covered | Licensing | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One | Internet access providers (IAP) | • User connections and other Internet user related services • Local hubs |
• No license fee valid countrywide • Cost of network services and international gateway access to be included in the tariff charged by DoT/MTNL. • Quality guarantees to be ensured by IAPs |
• DoT/MTNL/ VSNL should not enter retail services directly • They may appoint IAPs but uniform service charges for backbone use/gateway access should be charged |
| Two | Network Service Provider | • No license fee valid countrywide • Bandwidth allocation on staggered payment basis (pay as per use) |
• DoT/MTNL to have clear land down policies and uniform tariffs • Other private operators can also offer these services |
|
| Three | Backbone and international gateway access providers | • Domestic backbone • Metros / countrywide • International gateways |
• Minimum qualification criteria • Companies/foreign collabrators experience, track record • Minimum licence fee and internationally competitive rates (pay as per use) |
• In line with the government's policy, these should be open to all national / international companies in a phased manner |
| Notes: 1. Definitions: ISP (Internet service providers) provide one or more of the above servives. An ISP licence to provide operators may accordingly cover one, two or all the these services 2. Quality guarantee to be specified and agreed to in advance |
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