Getting A VNO License In India: The Ultimate Guide
VNO license is a telecom service provider with a license to provide telecom services solely for transit over the facilities of another service provider. In India, VNO licensing is regulated by the Department of Telecom, who grants these licenses based on guidelines set by the Central Government of India.
What is a VNO?
A Virtual Network Operator (VNO) is a type of telecommunications company that provides voice and data services over a secure, private network. VNOs typically lease space on a carrier’s network and then resell it to their customers. In some cases, VNOs may also own and operate their own networks.
VNOs are similar to Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), in that they both provide service without owning the underlying infrastructure. However, there are some key differences between the two. For one, VNOs focus on providing businesses with secure, private networks, while MVNOs cater to individual consumers. Additionally, VNOs typically have more control over the quality of their service since they own and operate their own networks.
The Indian telecom market is one of the most competitive in the world, with nearly 1.3 billion subscribers as of 2017. In order to get a slice of this pie, companies need to have a presence in India. And for many foreign companies, the best way to do this is by setting up a VNO.
Not only does this allow them to tap into India’s huge market potential, and provide internet for rural areas in India, but it also gives them the flexibility to tailor their services specifically for the Indian market. Setting up a VNO in India can be a complex process, however, so it’s important to know all the ins and outs before getting started.
This guide will give you an overview of everything you need to know
How To Get A VNO License In India?
In India, a VNO license is granted by the Department of Telecom (DoT). The process of getting a VNO license in India is as follows:
1. Submit an application to the DoT along with the required documents.
2. After the application is received, it will be forwarded to the concerned authority for scrutiny.
3. If the application is found to be in order, a provisional registration certificate (PRC) will be issued.
4. The applicant then needs to obtain a surety bond and furnish it to the DoT.
5. Once the surety bond is furnished, the applicant will be issued a formal license.
Process To Apply And Get Approved
The process of getting a VNO license in India is not as difficult as it may seem. There are a few simple steps that need to be followed in order to get your application approved.
1) Firstly, you will need to submit an application form to the concerned authorities. Along with the form, you will also need to submit supporting documents like your company’s incorporation certificate and ISP business plan in India.
2) Once your application is received, it will be reviewed by the authorities. If they have any queries, they will get in touch with you.
3) After your application is cleared, you will be asked to pay the license fee. Once the fee is paid, your license will be processed and issued.
4) You will then need to obtain a Certificate of Registration from the Registrar of Companies. This certificate needs to be renewed every year.
5) Finally, you will need to comply with all the rules and regulations set by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
Conclusion
With the right information and preparation, getting a VNO license in India can be a relatively simple process. We hope that this guide has provided you with all of the information you need to get started on your application. If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out to us and we’ll be happy to help. Good luck!
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Do you want to start an ISP in India? Are you looking for a step-by-step guide on how to start your own ISP business in India? Well, you are at the right place!
Introduction: Steps to Start Your Own ISP Business in India
There are a number of steps you need to take in order to start your own ISP business in India. Below we outline the key steps you need to take:
1. Register your business: In order to start an ISP business in India, you first need to register your company with the Registrar of Companies (ROC). This can be done online through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs website.
2. Obtain a license: Once your company is registered, you then need to obtain an Internet Service Provider License from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). This process can take up to six months.
3. Set up infrastructure: You will need to set up the necessary infrastructure for your ISP franchise in India, which includes obtaining internet bandwidth, setting up servers and routers, and establishing connectivity with other ISPs.
4. Launch your service: Once everything is set up, you can launch your ISP service! Make sure to promote your business and attract customers.
1. Find Funding
If you are planning to start your own Internet Service Provider (ISP) business in India, one of the first things you need to do is find funding. Here are some tips on how to find funding for your ISP business:
1. Look for investors who are interested in the telecommunications industry. There are many venture capitalists and private equity firms that invest in the telecommunications sector. You can try approaching them for funding.
2. Another option is to take out a loan from a bank. Many banks offer loans specifically for businesses in the telecommunications industry.
3. You can also look for government grants or subsidies that are available for starting an ISP business in India. The Indian government provides various subsidies and incentives for businesses that promote broadband penetration in the country.
4. Finally, you can also consider self-funding your ISP business by investing your own personal savings or taking out a personal loan. This option may be riskier but it can also be more rewarding if your business is successful.
2. Find a Location
Assuming that you have made up your mind to start your own internet franchise in India, the first step would be to find a location for setting up your office. This is important because your office should be situated in an area where there is a good demand for internet connectivity. Once you have zeroed in on a suitable location, the next step would be to obtain all the necessary licenses and permits from the local authorities. Only after these formalities have been completed, can you go ahead with setting up your office and starting operations.
3. Register the Company
In order to start your own ISP business in India, you will need to register the company with the Registrar of Companies (ROC). This can be done online or offline. The process is relatively simple and straightforward, and once the company is registered, you will be able to obtain a Certificate of Incorporation.
Once the company is registered, you will need to obtain a license from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). This license will allow you to provide broadband services in India. The process for obtaining this license is also relatively simple and straightforward.
Once you have registered the company and obtained the necessary licenses, you will need to set up infrastructure for your business. This includes setting up servers, routers, and other networking equipment. You will also need to sign up with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) in order to get connectivity for your business.
After all of this is complete, you will be ready to start providing broadband services to customers in India!
4. Get Licenses and Permits
In order to start your own ISP business in India, you will need to obtain several licenses and permits from the Indian government. Here is a rundown of the licenses and permits you will need:
1. Telecom Service Provider License: This license is required for any company that wants to provide telecom services in India. The application process for this license can be found on the website of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
2. Internet Service Provider License: This license is required for any company that wants to provide internet services in India. The application process for this license can be found on the website of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
3. Radio Frequency Identification Device License: This license is required for any company that wants to use radiofrequency identification devices (RFID) in India. The application process for this license can be found on the website of the Wireless Planning & Coordination Wing (WPC) of DoT.
4. Cable Operator Registration Certificate: This certificate is required for any company that wants to operate a cable television network in India. The application process for this certificate can be found on the website of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB).
5. Design a Network Diagram
Designing a network diagram is an important step in starting your own ISP business in India. There are many software programs that can help you create a network diagram, but it is important to understand the basics of networking before you start. The following steps will help you design a simple network diagram for your ISP business:
1. Decide on the purpose of your network diagram. Are you trying to map out the physical layout of your network? Or are you trying to show the logical flow of data between devices?
2. Choose a software program that suits your needs. If you’re not sure which program to use, consult with a professional for advice.
3. Gather information about your network. You’ll need to know things like the number of devices on your network, their IP addresses, and what kinds of connections they use (Ethernet, Wi-Fi, etc.).
4. Begin designing your diagram. Start by adding the devices on your network and then connecting them together using lines or arrows. Be sure to label each device and connection so that others can understand your diagram.
5. Save or print your diagram for future reference. As your network grows, you may need to update your diagram to reflect changes in the physical or logical layout of your network.
6. Install Network Equipment
Assuming you already have the equipment and just need to install it, here are the steps:
1. Find a good location: The first step is to find a good location for your tower or server room. This should be a spot with good coverage and no obstructions.
2. Prepare the equipment: Once you have found a good location, you need to set up the equipment. This includes setting up towers, antennas, and routers.
3. Connect the equipment: Once everything is set up, you need to connect all of the equipment. This includes connecting the router to the modem and connecting all of the cables.
4. Test the connection: Once everything is connected, you need to test the connection to make sure everything is working properly.
7. Install the Hardware for the Wiring System
In order to install the hardware for the wiring system, you will need to obtain the following items:
Once you have gathered all of the necessary hardware, you will need to connect the modem to the gateway device. Then, connect the gateway device to the router. Next, connect the Ethernet switch to the router. Finally, connect the wireless access point to the Ethernet switch. Once all of these connections have been made, you will be able to start using your new ISP business in India!
8. Install Data Cables and Connectivity Devices
Installing data cables and connectivity devices is a crucial step in starting your own ISP business in India. There are a few things to keep in mind when installing data cables and devices:
1. Make sure you follow all local building codes and regulations. This includes obtaining any necessary permits.
2. Plan the installation of your data cables and devices carefully. This will save you time and money in the long run.
3. Use high-quality data cables and devices. This will ensure optimal performance of your network.
4. Hire a professional installer if you are not confident in your abilities to do it yourself. This will ensure the job is done right the first time.
9. Connect to the Internet Service Provider
In order to start your own ISP business in India, you will need to connect to an Internet Service Provider (ISP). There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common is to use a broadband connection. This type of connection will allow you to connect to the Internet at high speeds, making it ideal for streaming video and downloading files.
Once you have connected to an ISP, you will need to select a ISP business plan in India that suits your needs. There are many different types of plans available, so make sure to do your research before selecting one. Once you have selected a plan, you will be able to start using the Internet immediately.
I strongly believe that affordable Internet access can change societies. Countries that had Internet first, are richer than countries that adopted Internet at a late stage.
Education in remote places with Internet opens up economic opportunities and gets rid of masked slavery. In a lot of remote towns in India there aren’t schools or roads. When you don’t have skills and your only option is to pick coffee or cotton for INR 6000 a month, it really isn’t an option, is it?
Providing accessible/affordable Internet and e-schools at an early stage in such areas game changes that.
People in the north east or remote corners don’t necessarily need our polluted, petro-dependant and corrupt model of development.
May be they don’t need four lanes and factories. May be they don’t need pesticides, may be they want to stick to organic as it’s always been there. May be they need a data-driven economy with public transport powered by renewables.
People in rural areas need to be aware of the different models of development and be able to choose their own. The Internet exposes them to this and that is the reason there is a great demand for internet for rural areas in India.
This is why we started @muftinternet – a social enterprise that provides Internet access in remote places that never had any connectivity and works on different ideas to reduce the digital divide. The goal is to make Internet access affordable and accessible to every single household in India.
We work on remote area connectivity, data aggregation and teaching people how to become low cost micro-ISPs. We have setup community broadband in villages that never had telephone lines, 2G, 3G or fiber optics. Muft got Internet for the very first time to places that no big telco or government saw worth investing in.
We have been fortunate enough to build an excellent team that is performance driven and highly motivated through solving socio-technical challenges and not just money.
Over time, Muft has been benchmarking connectivity standards in the country.
For instance; our latency is lower than that of Airtel Xtreme and Jio Fibre in Aizawl, Mizoram. Our plans are cheaper, offer higher speeds and have unlimited data.
While most small/independent ISPs shut down during Jio’s price war – our territories survived. In fact, our operators grew their customer base after Jio stopped the free sim offer.
After the price war, they jacked up their prices – we didn’t. However, we did improve our profitability because of ingenious data optimization and routing techniques. Another thing that helped us is that our buying power of raw bandwidth increased through aggregation. More and more small time village ISPs started buying Internet bandwidth unitedly and together. This drove down costs per village as they were pooling all of this data together (with our help).
We as one of the bulk bandwidth providers in India, spent the first four years to bring Internet access to a single remote village. In the last 3 years, we made it to 51 operators in 120+ villages across 10 states in India.
All of this done with a core team of 7 passionate people. That’s it.
This company has been bootstrapped without any large investment. We don’t own infrastructure. Local communities do. We mostly rent. We have never had an office. We have always worked from home. We have the least overheads for a telco company. We work less than 4-5 hours a day, 4 days a week.
There is no concept of asking for leaves. Work is measured by defined by clear metrics, not just dumb attendance.
As a company, we promise every employee this: No perks. No side benefits. A good salary, profit share in the company, travel beautiful parts of India and the most important thing of all – a lot of free time to be able to develop your own experiences and grow as an individual.
So, clearly there is something we are doing right!
At this stage, we are looking to grow our team. This isn’t a post for a specific job. We don’t work with ultra specific job roles. Instead, we use a problem solving approach.
The Problem: Telco in India is f*cked. It’s corrupt, inaccessible in rural areas and congested in cities. Every major company and the government is ‘losing’ money. There are countless business, legal, sales, marketing and technological inefficiencies in the telecom industry in India. How can YOU contribute towards fixing it?
In the start you will be paid to learn about problems in telco, digital divide and our company.
You will assist other members in different tasks and learn. We spend a year in teaching and onboarding.
Eventually, you will tell us what interests you, what you can contribute and how you can best add value to our organization.
You will have an opportunity to travel your beautiful country and learn something amazing – how people in most remote corners of India communicate using the Internet access we provide and how to bring Internet and e-school access to places that never had any.
If you’re smart, value honesty, vibe with what we do at Muft and would like to work with us – send me a message.
In this series, I talk about the current state of digital divide and rural broadband access in India as on 2021.
It’s 2021. We have been vocal about this issue for almost a decade now. Thousands of Indian villages suffer because of lack of broadband and Internet access.
With COVID and the economic lockdown for the lower and middle class, this country is facing one its biggest crisis in the century. There is an urgent need to enable information and Internet access for every single citizen of this country.
How do we expect children to be a part of online education without Internet access?
How do we expect people to participate in a digital economy without having access to Internet?
Does e-governance simply mean making new b.s. apps to give people an illusion that something is being done?
Why don’t we treat Internet access as a human right in this country?
To elevate poverty and misery from this country – we have to ensure equal opportunity to access information for all. This means, connecting every last village with broadband Internet access. We are one of the youngest countries in the world with tremendous potential to not just uplift ourselves but to also raise the standards for this entire sub-continent. We rise despite our government, not because of it.
From student protests to farmer protests, the government of India has time and again demonstrated its oppressive nature by blocking or censoring the Internet. However, nothing has been done to provide last mile connectivity to rural areas. The apathetic nature of our ruling classes do not consider the plight of the weakest members of our society. At this stage, for those of us who remain conscious, it’s up to us to empower the weakest and the most vulnerable members of our countries with infrastructure and educational access.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Zk1C6IDhLw] At Muft Internet, one of the trusted internet bandwidth providers in India, we have been teaching locals from different remote villages in India how to set up their own community broadband without ANY help from big telco or the government. Both of which focus on quantity and profit instead of inclusivity while designing access solutions for the masses.
Since the lockdown hit last year, our team has been working round the clock to share this knowledge. Mobilizing young Indians to take charge of their own village’s broadband access. There is no point waiting for the government or big telcos to set up infrastructure in these remote and forgotten places.
We are one of the lowest ranking countries for Internet speeds and freedom. We have some of most wide-spread Internet censorship. A mark of a strong democracy and a civilised society is how they treat Internet access for it’s citizens. In India, we simply lack this.
Some of the villages we got broadband Internet to last year didn’t have 2g or any mobile network to communicate. We have been getting 100s of phones calls every week from villagers asking us to help them set up community broadband access for their villages, they wanted to know how to get wifi connection in village. It’s been impossible for us to reach all of these places at the same time considering our small research and technical team that works pro-bono.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpMl04ooAps] In light of this situation, we are launching our own digital education platform that aims to teach young Indians how to set up and run their rural broadband network. A simple 100 hour free course with a centralised helpline that will possibly transform the state of access in this country in time to come.
It’s possibly the best time to become an ISP in India within the non-metro regions!
India now has 600 million Internet users. With 1.3 billion as it’s population, 60% of India is still offline!
India still has a tremendous scope for growth in the rural telecom industry.
For the first time, rural India has more number of Internet users than the cities. At Muft Internet, we have been investing in rural telecom development to provide internet for rural areas in India since the last 5 years!
Unlike big telco players like Jio and Airtel, we never based our services in the cities. No point in competing if millions of villages are still offline. Instead, our investments have always been rural India.
The economic shutdown caused de-urbanisation. Millions were forced back to their villages. And now, those folks are going online and teaching people around them how to use the internet. Businesses around the world started moving online.
People consumed more video (via internet) than TV. This made our business grow – more and more people want to become an ISP in India.The global economic shutdown game changed the way our economy works.
Welcome to the biggest boom in rural telco. The fastest growing industry in India for the next decade.
After the economic shutdown, for the first time in India, there are more Internet users in rural areas than in big metro cities. Unfortunately, rural India still lacks sufficient infrastructure for broadband internet distribution.
With high costs of infrastructure set up, wireless technologies seem to pave the way for people to easily become an ISP in India and set up an ISP franchise in India. The growing demand is now being met with decentralised ISPs that use the power of last mile air fibre technologies.
The oil industry of the 21st century is ‘telecommunications and broadband’. Globally, demand for data is increasing every year. With the introduction of mobile video, more and more data is being consumed through the internet.
At Muft Internet, we have assisted over 1200 local operators in villages/towns across rural India with:
