Trai’s top position may get filled soon

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) top position which was vacant for more than three months may soon get filled as the Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba interviewed four potential candidates, as per report. Those interviewed include two former secretaries, one Railway Board member and a person from the Department of Telecommunications.

The post of TRAI Chairman is appointed by Centre and selection is done from amongst the candidates who have special knowledge of and professional experience in telecommunication, industry, finance, accountancy, law, management or consumer affairs, according to government notification.    

The post became vacant after the retirement of PD Vaghela on September 30. In June 2023, the government came out with an advertisement for the position and it conducted interviews of six candidates. But nobody was selected. Subsequently, the government re-advertised for the post of Chairman in December 2023. Then, it categorically mentioned that those who have applied against the earlier advertisement issued on June 22 need not apply afresh.

The notification also reveals that the Chairperson will have powers of general superintendence and directions in the conduct of the affairs of the Authority and he/she shall, in addition to presiding over the meetings of the Authority, exercise and discharge such other powers and functions of the Authority as may be prescribed. The salary of chairman will be a consolidated salary of Rs 4.50 lakh per month (without house and car).