Telecom industry seeks budget relief, proposing fee cuts and USOF reforms for growth.
The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has submitted recommendations to the Ministry of Finance for the 2025-26 Union Budget to revitalize the telecom industry. Key points include abolishing or suspending the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) levy, reducing the license fee from 3% to 1%, and revising the definition of Gross Revenue (GR). COAI also recommends that large traffic generators (LTGs) contribute to the USO fund and telecom infrastructure. The group seeks exemption from Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on telecom equipment and clarifies service tax on license fees and spectrum charges.
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