The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has proposed a comprehensive regulatory framework to streamline the sale of foreign telecom service providers' SIM cards for Machine-To-Machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) devices intended for export. The regulator recommends implementing a light-touch service authorisation under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, designed to boost India's competitiveness in the global IoT market while supporting the Make in India initiative.

Proposed International M2M SIM Service Authorisation Framework

TRAI has outlined a business-friendly authorisation structure with minimal financial barriers to encourage participation in the IoT export market. The proposed framework includes several key features designed to make the process accessible and efficient for Indian companies.

The regulator has specified that any company registered under the Indian Companies Act should be eligible to obtain the international M2M SIM service authorisation. This broad eligibility criterion aims to encourage widespread participation from Indian manufacturers and exporters in the IoT segment.

Testing and Implementation Provisions

To facilitate product development and quality assurance, TRAI has recommended allowing foreign telecom service providers' SIM and eSIM cards to be activated in India for testing purposes. The testing period would be limited to a maximum of six months, providing sufficient time for manufacturers to validate their products before export.

The regulatory framework also addresses the need for coordination between various government departments. TRAI has suggested that the Telecom Department should work closely with the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Commerce, and other relevant ministries to establish a clear regulatory framework. This coordination would enable the import of foreign SIM/eSIM cards for use in M2M/IoT devices meant for exports and facilitate the export of Indian SIM/eSIM cards for imported IoT devices.

Market Impact and Strategic Benefits

TRAI believes the proposed framework will unlock significant market potential for Indian exporters and importers operating in the M2M/IoT segment. The regulator emphasizes that this regulatory approach would make Indian products with M2M capability more attractive in global markets, helping Indian enterprises compete effectively with established international players in IoT and M2M markets.

The recommendations directly address a key challenge faced by Indian manufacturers who export products to global markets. These manufacturers currently seek foreign SIMs to be provided within India for integration into their products, enabling IoT and M2M services for use outside the country. The streamlined authorisation process would facilitate this requirement while maintaining appropriate regulatory oversight.

Technology Context and Future Outlook

Machine-to-Machine communication refers to technologies that enable both wireless and wired systems to communicate with other devices of similar capability. The Internet of Things represents a connected network of embedded devices capable of M2M communication without human intervention. These technologies are increasingly critical for various industries, from manufacturing and logistics to healthcare and smart city applications.

TRAI's recommendations reflect the growing importance of IoT and M2M technologies in global trade and manufacturing. By reducing regulatory barriers and streamlining processes, the proposed framework aims to position India as a competitive player in the global IoT manufacturing ecosystem while supporting domestic innovation and export growth.

Tarai Foods Limited has released its unaudited financial results for the second quarter ended September 30, 2025, revealing continued operational challenges and widening losses. The company, which operates in the manufacturing of fresh and frozen foods and vegetables, reported deteriorating financial performance across key metrics.

Financial Performance Overview

The company's financial performance for Q2 FY26 showed significant concerns with increased losses and continued absence of operational revenue.

Expense Analysis

Despite zero operational revenue, the company incurred various operational expenses totaling ₹11.1 lakhs in Q2 FY26 compared to ₹10.2 lakhs in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

The most significant increase was observed in fuel, power and water expenses, which surged by 440% to ₹2.7 lakhs from ₹0.5 lakhs in the previous year.

Balance Sheet Position

The company's balance sheet as of September 30, 2025, reflects a challenging financial position with negative equity.

Cash Flow and Liquidity

The company's cash position deteriorated significantly during the half-year period ended September 30, 2025.

Cash and cash equivalents declined from ₹99 lakhs as of March 31, 2025, to ₹54 lakhs as of September 30, 2025.

Corporate Governance

The Board of Directors approved these unaudited financial results at their meeting held on November 14, 2025, which commenced at 4:30 PM and concluded at 5:15 PM. The results were reviewed by the Audit Committee and accompanied by a limited review report from the statutory auditors, Sunil Vashisht & Co., Chartered Accountants.

The company maintains its paid-up equity share capital at ₹1,536.41 lakhs with a face value of ₹10 per share. The shareholding pattern remains unchanged with public shareholding at 53.41% and promoter group holding 46.59% of the total share capital.