Daily Current Affairs : 27-March-2024

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recently released important recommendations concerning the use of Embedded SIM (eSIM) technology for Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communications. This move follows a request from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and aims to improve the regulatory framework surrounding eSIM usage in India. These recommendations are particularly relevant for various sectors, including agriculture, transportation, healthcare, and industrial automation.

What is M2M Communication?

M2M communication refers to the direct communication between devices without human intervention. This technology plays a crucial role in modernizing industries by allowing devices to send and receive data. Here are some key applications of M2M:

  • Agriculture: Farmers can monitor soil conditions and crop health.
  • Transportation: Vehicles can communicate for better route management.
  • Healthcare: Medical devices can share patient data in real time.
  • Industrial Automation: Machines can optimize performance through constant communication.

What is eSIM Technology?

Embedded SIM, or eSIM, is a digital SIM card that is embedded directly into a device. Unlike traditional SIM cards, which can be removed and replaced, eSIMs offer more flexibility. They can be programmed remotely, making them ideal for M2M applications.

TRAI’s Mission and Objectives

TRAI is a key regulatory body established on February 20, 1997, in New Delhi. Its primary mission is to foster growth in the telecommunications sector across India. TRAI’s objectives include:

  • Creating a fair and transparent environment for telecom operators and consumers.
  • Promoting fair competition in the market.
  • Increasing broadband penetration to enhance connectivity for all citizens.

Important Points:

TRAI’s Recent Recommendations:

  • Focus on the use of Embedded SIM (eSIM) for Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communications.
  • Aimed at improving the regulatory framework in India.

Significance of M2M Communication:

  • Enables direct device-to-device communication without human intervention.
  • Key applications include:
    • Agriculture: Monitoring soil and crop health.
    • Transportation: Enhanced route management for vehicles.
    • Healthcare: Real-time sharing of patient data.
    • Industrial Automation: Optimization of machine performance.

Understanding eSIM Technology:

  • eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in devices, offering more flexibility than traditional SIM cards.
  • Can be programmed remotely, ideal for M2M applications.

TRAI’s Mission and Objectives:

  • Established on February 20, 1997, headquartered in New Delhi.
  • Aims to foster growth in the telecommunications sector.
  • Key objectives:
    • Create a fair and transparent environment.
    • Promote fair competition in the market.
    • Increase broadband penetration for better connectivity.

Overall Impact:

  • TRAI’s recommendations are designed to enhance technology integration in various sectors.
  • Support innovations that drive economic growth and improve quality of life in India.

Why In News

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released recommendations on the ‘Usage of Embedded SIM for Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Communications’ following a request from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), aiming to enhance connectivity and efficiency across various sectors by leveraging modern technology.

MCQs about TRAI’s eSIM Recommendations for M2M Communications

  1. What is the primary purpose of TRAI’s recent recommendations on eSIM for M2M communications?
    A. To reduce telecommunications costs
    B. To improve the regulatory framework for eSIM usage
    C. To eliminate traditional SIM cards
    D. To promote mobile gaming
    Correct Answer: B. To improve the regulatory framework for eSIM usage
    Explanation: TRAI’s recommendations aim to streamline the regulatory framework surrounding the use of embedded SIM technology for machine-to-machine communications.
  2. Which of the following sectors is NOT mentioned as a beneficiary of M2M communication ?
    A. Agriculture
    B. Healthcare
    C. Entertainment
    D. Transportation
    Correct Answer: C. Entertainment
    Explanation: The essay lists agriculture, healthcare, and transportation as key sectors benefiting from M2M communication, but does not mention entertainment.
  3. What is an Embedded SIM (eSIM)?
    A. A removable SIM card used in smartphones
    B. A digital SIM embedded directly into a device
    C. A type of software for managing SIM cards
    D. A physical SIM card used only in industrial machines
    Correct Answer: B. A digital SIM embedded directly into a device
    Explanation: An eSIM is a digital SIM card that is embedded in devices, allowing for remote programming and greater flexibility compared to traditional SIM cards.
  4. What is one of TRAI’s main objectives?
    A. To increase the number of mobile gaming applications
    B. To create a fair and transparent environment in telecommunications
    C. To eliminate competition among telecom operators
    D. To reduce internet access across rural areas
    Correct Answer: B. To create a fair and transparent environment in telecommunications
    Explanation: TRAI’s objectives include fostering a fair and transparent environment for telecom operators and consumers, promoting competition, and increasing broadband penetration.

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