Description

TRAI issues direction to curb misuse of Headers and Content Templates under Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference Regulations, 2018 dated November 18, 2025.

Summary

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a direction dated November 18, 2025, under section 13 of the TRAI Act, 1997, regarding measures to curb misuse of Headers and Content Templates under Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference Regulations, 2018. The direction pertains to regulations governing unsolicited commercial communications and updates requirements for Access Providers.

Key Points

  • Direction issued under section 13, read with sub clauses (i) and (v) of clause (b) of sub-section (1) of section 11 of the TRAI Act, 1997
  • Relates to Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference Regulations, 2018 (6 of 2018)
  • Updates previous directions dated February 16, 2023 and May 12, 2023
  • Limits number of variable portions in content templates to two variables, with third variable allowed in case of exigency with recorded reasons
  • Variables in content templates must be non-contiguous and not separated with space, comma or special characters
  • Access Providers may allow more than three variables in special circumstances with proper justification from Principal Entity
  • Each variable must be pre-tagged for its intended purpose to prevent misuse
  • Only whitelisted URLs/APKs/OTT Links/Callback numbers allowed in content templates

Regulatory Changes

TRAI has updated the regulatory framework for Content Template Registration Function (CTRF) under Schedule-I, item 4(3) of the regulations. Access Providers are directed to make changes in their Code of Practice (CoPs) and incorporate requirements regarding:

  • Limiting variables in message content templates
  • Pre-tagging of variables for defined purposes
  • Whitelisting of URLs, APKs, OTT links and callback numbers
  • Prevention of misuse of content templates in commercial communications

Compliance Requirements

  • Access Providers must incorporate changes in their Code of Practice within fifteen days from the date of direction
  • Submit revised CoPs within the stipulated timeframe
  • Ensure compliance with variable limitations and pre-tagging requirements
  • Maintain whitelisting protocols for URLs/APKs/OTT Links/Callback numbers
  • Allow additional variables only in special circumstances with documented justification from Principal Entity

Important Dates

  • Direction Date: November 18, 2025
  • Circular Publication Date: November 24, 2025
  • CoP Revision Deadline: Within 15 days from direction date
  • Previous Related Directions: February 16, 2023 and May 12, 2023

Impact Assessment

This is a telecom sector regulatory update that has minimal direct impact on capital markets or stock exchange operations. The direction affects telecom Access Providers and entities sending commercial communications through telecom channels. There is no direct impact on listed companies unless they are telecom service providers or heavily reliant on SMS/telecom-based commercial communications for business operations. The circular is informational for BSE members but does not affect trading, listing, or market operations.

Impact Justification

This is a telecom regulatory matter from TRAI regarding commercial communications and content templates. It does not directly impact stock market operations, trading, or listed companies, hence low importance and impact for capital markets.