TRAI Signs MOU With BEREC
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (“TRAI”) signed a memorandum of understanding (“MOU”) with the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (“BEREC”) on June 14, 2018. Under the framework of this MOU, both BEREC and TRAI advocate for effective electronic communications regulation. The goal of the MOU is to encourage a cooperative relationship between the Parties that supports the Parties’ respective efforts to address current and future regulatory challenges on net neutrality. Separate from the MOU, they also adopted a “Joint Statement for an Open Internet”. In this statement the two expose their common understanding of the building blocks of net neutrality rules and the core aspects of the regulators’ mission in preserving these rules. It also intends to show the willingness of both sides to develop regular exchanges regarding the implementation of these rules.
Kerala Govt. to Take-over BHEL EML
The Kerala State government is planning to take over the state-run Maharatna company Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited’s subsidiary, BHEL Electrical Machines Ltd (“EML”). EML, a public sector unit based in Kasaragod, Kerala, manufactures traction motors and control devices used in electric vehicles. The Kerala government’s takeover of EML estimates the latter’s asset value at USD 7.7 Mn (INR 53 Cr). The Restructuring and Internal Audit Board, a state-owned enterprise that executes states reform initiatives, has been entrusted with the task of completing the deal formalities. This move by the Kerala State government is slated to boost supply of electric vehicles in the state, in a bid to reduce atmospheric pollution by petroleum driven vehicles.