The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has allegedly requested Apple and Google to limit downloads of Airalo and Holafly in India through their respective app stores.
Google has restricted access to the apps of international eSIM providers Airalo and Holafly for users in India for not complying with existing telecom policies in the country, according to a report. The blocking of the apps, that provide access to SIM cards that provide access to calling and data while traveling to various countries, was reportedly done in compliance with directions issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to both Google and Apple. The latter is yet to block downloads of both apps in the country.
A Moneycontrol report citing unnamed sources states that Google has restricted downloads of Airalo and Holafly for users in India via the Google Play store, as both apps did not have the required No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the DoT to sell or rent international roaming SIM cards to users in the country. The DoT has reportedly directed Google and Apple to block downloads of the apps in India, as they lacked the requisite approvals to operate in the country.
As of January 2022, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has implemented a revised policy for the issuance or renewal of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) concerning the sale and rent of international roaming SIM cards or global calling cards by foreign operators in India. Under this policy, foreign operators are required to obtain a NOC from the DoT to sell or rent international roaming SIM cards to customers in India.
As of September 30, 2023, records on the DoT’s website indicate that 22 providers have been granted the necessary NOCs. To be eligible for an NOC, providers must be registered as an Indian company and demonstrate the usage of international cards outside India. Additionally, providers are obligated to collect a copy of the user’s passport with the visa, proof of identity, and proof of address. Furthermore, in adherence to the policy, providers are required to furnish security agencies with a detailed monthly report containing information about the customers who have been provided with SIM cards.