Demystifying DLT Registration: Necessity, Process, and Costs

Understanding DLT Registration

Definition and Importance

DLT registration, short for Distributed Ledger Technology registration, is a critical process for businesses and entities engaged in sending commercial communication messages, including SMS or voice calls. It entails registering sender IDs, headers, and content templates with telecom authorities or service providers. This process is mandated by regulatory bodies like the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) under the Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference Regulation (TCCCPR) 2018 to curb unsolicited messages and voice communications.

Utilizing Blockchain Technology

DLT leverages blockchain technology to ensure the security and transparency of communication channels. By synchronizing customer data with all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in real-time, especially when customers opt for Do Not Disturb (DND) services, DLT helps combat unwanted communication effectively.

The DLT Registration Process

H3: Overview

The DLT registration process involves several key steps to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and enhance communication security.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand Regulatory Requirements

Before initiating the registration process, it’s crucial to comprehend the regulatory requirements set forth by telecom authorities. This includes familiarizing oneself with TCCCPR guidelines and TRAI regulations.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation

Businesses need to collect essential documentation, including proof of identity and address, business registration documents, PAN card ID of authorized signatories, and official business letterhead for authorization.

Step 3: Choose DLT Platform

Select a suitable DLT platform based on reliability, security features, and cost-effectiveness. Ensure the platform aligns with the specific needs and requirements of the business.

Step 4: Provide Business Details

Furnish detailed information about the business entity, including name, contact information, nature of business, and consent templates for communication messages.

Step 5: Submit KYC Documents

Submit Know Your Customer (KYC) documents to verify the identity and legitimacy of the business entity, including proof of identity and address of authorized signatories, business registration documents, and PAN card ID.

Step 6: Complete Registration Form

Fill out the registration form provided by the chosen DLT platform, ensuring all required fields are accurately completed. Double-check the information provided to avoid any discrepancies.

Step 7: Pay Registration Fee

Pay the applicable one-time registration fee, which is Rs. 5,900 INR on the first platform. Subsequent registrations on other platforms are free of cost.

Step 8: Await Confirmation

After submitting the registration form and payment, await confirmation from the DLT platform regarding the status of the registration. This may involve document verification and compliance checks.

Step 9: Maintain Compliance

Once registered, businesses must maintain compliance with regulatory requirements and adhere to the terms and conditions set forth by the DLT platform. This includes updating sender IDs, headers, and content templates as necessary and ensuring timely renewal of registration.

Overview

DLT registration is essential for businesses to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and enhance communication security. By following the outlined steps, businesses can successfully register on DLT platforms and contribute to a safer and more transparent communication ecosystem.

DLT registration steps

TRAI permits major telecom operators in India to provide DLT platforms. Links to these platforms are provided below, and you have the option to register on any of them.

All operators are supported, but for DLT Registration, Videocon, Airtel, and Jio are recommended.

Understanding Required Documentation for DLT Registration**

Essential Documents

To register on any DLT platform, businesses must provide the following essential documents:

– Proof of Business Identification: PAN Card (mandatory)
– Letter of Authorization
– Authorized Signatory: Board Resolution Copy or Power of Attorney (POA) of the authorized person
– Proof of Business Entity: One of the following documents is required:
– Shop and Establishment Act License
– GST Certificate
– CIN Certificate (Certificate of Incorporation)
– TAN Certificate
– FSSAI License
– Import & Export Registration documents

Understanding Principal Entity and Sender ID in DLT

Principal Entity

The Principal Entity refers to the company or organization responsible for sending SMS messages to its clients and customers. It can be an individual, sole proprietor, partnership firm, or any private/public or government organization intending to communicate with clients using Bulk SMS Services.

Sender ID

Once the Principal Entity is established on the DLT platform, the next step involves configuring Sender/Header IDs, various DLT message templates, and different use cases.

Overview of Sender IDs in DLT

Definition

Sender IDs, now referred to as Headers according to the latest TRAI regulations, are unique combinations of six characters representing the brand or company name of the sender.

Types of Sender IDs

Sender IDs can be categorized into two distinct types:

1. Alpha: Used for Transactional, Service Implicit/Explicit type of traffic.
2. Numeric: Reserved exclusively for Promotional type of traffic.

Registration Process

Headers must be registered for each category of commercial communication, and for every registered Header, the Principal Entity must register a corresponding template aligning with the category or purpose of the Header.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the required documentation for DLT registration and the significance of Principal Entity and Sender IDs is crucial for businesses aiming to comply with regulatory standards and enhance communication security. By following the prescribed steps and guidelines, businesses can successfully register on DLT platforms and contribute to a safer and more transparent communication ecosystem.