Key Points
- TRAI proposes third amendment to 2018 spam regulations with AI-based detection provisions
- Public comments invited until 12 April with counter-comments due by 27 April 2026
- Amendment follows major telecom operators implementing AI systems to detect spam calls
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released draft amendments to India’s spam call and message regulations, proposing new provisions that address artificial intelligence-based detection of unsolicited commercial communications. The regulator has invited public comments on the draft by 12 April 2026.
The proposed changes, formally titled the Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference (Third Amendment) Regulations 2026, would update the framework that governs how companies can contact mobile users for promotional purposes. For the estimated 120 crore mobile subscribers in India, the amendments could mean stronger protections against the spam calls and messages that interrupt daily life.
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Why TRAI proposes third amendment to spam rules
The regulator said it drafted the amendments after receiving feedback from various parties and observing recent developments in the sector. Major telecom operators have begun using AI systems to automatically detect and block spam before it reaches subscribers. The current regulations, first issued in July 2018, did not anticipate these technological changes.
TRAI’s original 2018 framework created a system where mobile users can register their preferences, choosing to block all promotional messages or allow only specific categories such as banking or real estate. The framework also required businesses to register before sending commercial communications and mandated that telecom companies take action against violators.
The regulations were amended twice before, in December 2018 and February 2025, to address gaps that spammers exploited.
The regulator has published the full draft on its website and opened a formal consultation process. Citizens, telecom companies, businesses that send promotional messages and consumer groups can submit written comments.
Comments must be sent to [email protected] by 12 April 2026. Counter-comments, which allow parties to respond to submissions made by others, are due by 27 April 2026. TRAI has asked that submissions follow a specified format available on its website.
Spam problem in India
Unsolicited commercial communications, commonly called spam calls and messages, remain a persistent problem for mobile users despite years of regulatory effort. These range from loan offers and insurance pitches to outright fraudulent schemes.
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The 2018 regulations introduced the concept of consent, requiring that businesses obtain explicit permission before contacting users. They also created categories of communication preferences, allowing users to choose what types of messages they wished to receive.
However, enforcement proved difficult. Many spammers operated through unregistered channels or used technical methods to disguise their identities. The rise of internet-based calling added another layer of complexity.
The integration of AI detection by telecom operators represents the latest attempt to address the problem at scale. These systems analyse call patterns and message content to identify likely spam before it reaches users.
TRAI will review all submissions after the consultation period closes. The regulator typically publishes a summary of comments received and its responses before issuing final regulations. No timeline has been announced for when the final amended regulations might take effect.
Your Questions, Answered
What is TRAI’s third amendment to spam regulations about?
The draft amendment proposes updates to India’s 2018 spam call and message rules. It addresses recent developments including AI-based detection systems that major telecom operators have implemented to automatically identify and block unsolicited commercial communications.
How can I submit comments on the TRAI draft amendment?
Written comments can be sent to [email protected] by 12 April 2026. Counter-comments responding to other submissions are due by 27 April 2026. TRAI has published a specified format for submissions on its website.
What are unsolicited commercial communications?
Unsolicited commercial communications, commonly called spam, are promotional calls and messages sent to mobile users without their consent. These include loan offers, insurance pitches, real estate promotions and sometimes fraudulent schemes.
When were India’s spam call regulations first introduced?
TRAI issued the Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference Regulations in July 2018. The rules were amended in December 2018 and February 2025. This third amendment addresses technological changes including AI-based spam detection.
