TRAI Extends Deadline on DLC Tariff Review

New Delhi: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has extended the last date for submission of comments and counter-comments on its Consultation Paper titled “Review of Tariff for Domestic Leased Circuits (DLCs).”

The Consultation Paper, originally released on January 23, 2026, sought stakeholder inputs on the existing tariff framework governing Domestic Leased Circuits (DLCs) across India . The initial deadline for submission of written comments was February 22, 2026.

Extension Granted Following Industry Requests

According to an official press release issued by the regulator, TRAI received representations from industry associations and stakeholders requesting additional time to submit comprehensive responses. Taking these requests into consideration, the Authority has decided to revise the submission timelines.

The new deadlines are as follows:

• Last date for written comments: March 2, 2026

• Last date for counter-comments: March 9, 2026

The extension is expected to enable stakeholders—including telecom service providers, enterprise customers, industry bodies, and policy analysts—to provide more detailed and constructive feedback on the tariff review framework.

Importance of the Consultation

Domestic Leased Circuits (DLCs) are critical infrastructure components that provide dedicated, point-to-point communication links for enterprises, telecom operators, data centers, and government institutions. Tariff regulation of DLCs plays a significant role in shaping enterprise connectivity costs, digital infrastructure expansion, and competitive market dynamics.

The current review aims to reassess pricing structures, market competitiveness, and regulatory relevance in light of evolving telecom technologies, increased data consumption, and expanding enterprise network requirements.

By inviting industry-wide comments, TRAI intends to ensure that the revised tariff framework aligns with market realities while protecting consumer and enterprise interests.

Submission Process

Stakeholders are advised to submit their comments preferably in electronic form. Communications may be addressed to:

Shri D. Manoj
Principal Advisor (Financial & Economic Analysis)
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India
Email: pradvfea@trai.gov.in

For further clarification, stakeholders may contact the office at +91-11-26701474 .

Regulatory Transparency and Stakeholder Engagement

The extension reflects TRAI’s consultative approach in regulatory policymaking. By accommodating industry feedback requests, the Authority reinforces its commitment to participatory governance and transparent telecom regulation.

Given the increasing reliance on high-capacity leased circuits by enterprises, data-intensive sectors, financial institutions, and emerging digital platforms, the outcome of this consultation is expected to have significant implications for India’s digital ecosystem and business connectivity landscape.

Stakeholders are encouraged to utilize the extended timeframe to provide structured, data-backed submissions that can assist in framing a balanced and forward-looking tariff regime.