M2M Service Authorisation in India: A Practical Guide Under the 2026 Telecom Rules

The growing use of connected devices, smart infrastructure, vehicle tracking, industrial automation and IoT applications has made Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication an important part of the telecom ecosystem.

With the introduction of the Telecommunications (Authorisation for Provision of Miscellaneous Telecommunication Services) Rules, 2026, under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has established a specific regulatory framework for entities providing M2M services in India.

This article provides a practical overview of the M2M Service Authorisation, including its scope, application process, applicable fees and key regulatory requirements.

What is M2M Communication?

M2M communication refers to telecommunications between two or more machines, which may take place without direct human intervention.

In simple terms, it enables connected devices to communicate with each other over a telecommunications network. Examples include connected vehicles, smart meters, industrial equipment, tracking devices and other connected-machine applications.

Under the 2026 Rules, M2M services refer to telecommunications services that establish communication between machines using M2M communication.

What is M2M Service Authorisation?

M2M Service Authorisation is the authorisation required to provide M2M services under the 2026 Rules.

M2M services have been specifically included as a category of miscellaneous telecommunication services, with the authorisation applicable on a National Service Area basis.

The authorisation provides a regulatory framework for entities offering M2M services and also sets out specific requirements relating to the deployment and management of M2M networks, SIMs and connected devices.

What Does the M2M Authorisation Cover?

The M2M Service Authorisation permits the authorised entity to provide M2M services.

The authorised entity may also:

• Establish, operate, maintain or expand a Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) or Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) for providing M2M services using spectrum that is not subject to individual assignment under applicable law.

• Own and manage a platform for subscription profile management of M2M embedded Subscriber Identity Modules (eSIMs), subject to the prescribed approval requirements.

  
  

The M2M Service Authorisation, however, does not by itself permit the entity to provide other telecommunication services for which a separate authorisation is required.

Application Process for M2M Service Authorisation

An application for M2M Service Authorisation is submitted through the designated DoT portal e.g Saral Sanchar along with the prescribed documents.

The process broadly involves the following steps:

1.     Prepare the application

The applicant is required to submit the prescribed application form and supporting documents through the DoT’s Saral Sanchar portal.

2.     Pay the processing fee

The prescribed non-refundable processing fee is required to be submitted along with the application.

3.     DoT scrutiny

DoT may examine the application and seek additional information or clarification, where required.

4.     Grant of authorisation

An M2M Service Authorisation is granted to an eligible applicant without prior issuance of a Letter of Intent (LoI).

Fees for M2M Service Authorisation

The financial requirements prescribed for M2M Service Authorisation under the 2026 Rules are:

Particular	M2M Service Authorisation
Processing Fee	₹10,000
Entry Fee	Nil
Initial Guarantee	Nil
Authorisation Fee	Nil

Accordingly, the Rules do not prescribe any entry fee, initial guarantee or authorisation fee for M2M Service Authorisation.

Security and Traceability Requirements

Security and traceability are important aspects of the M2M regulatory framework.

An authorised M2M service provider is required to maintain appropriate technical and organisational measures and an online supply-chain management system for M2M SIMs.

The authorised entity must also maintain details relating to the movement of M2M SIMs from the authorised entity to users and provide such information to the Government or the authorised/designated agency when required.

M2M devices must also be identifiable and traceable using telecommunication identifiers.

In addition, the authorised entity is required to comply with directions issued by the Government relating to restrictive features for M2M SIMs and security of M2M-enabled devices.

Conclusion

The 2026 M2M Service Authorisation framework provides a dedicated regulatory framework for entities providing M2M services in India.

For businesses operating in areas such as IoT, connected devices, fleet management, smart infrastructure and industrial connectivity, understanding the applicable authorisation requirements and regulatory obligations is important before commencing M2M service provisioning.

How White Water Solutions Can Assist

White Water Solutions (WWS) provides telecom regulatory advisory support to businesses seeking to establish or expand telecom-enabled services in India.

Our support can include assessment of the proposed M2M service model, determination of the applicable authorisation framework, assistance with the DoT application process, preparation and review of regulatory documentation, and guidance on ongoing regulatory requirements.