The new framework aims to prevent disruptions in Internet of Things (IoT) services during ownership changes
New Delhi
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on Wednesday issued an Office Memorandum announcing a formal framework for transferring ownership of machine-to-machine (M2M) SIMs between M2M service providers or licensees.
The new framework aims to prevent disruptions in Internet of Things (IoT) services during ownership changes, ensuring smoother operations and compliance across the sector, the Ministry of Communications said.
Previously, there was no formal provision for changing the ownership of M2M SIMs under existing guidelines. This new procedure establishes a standardized, legally compliant process applicable to all M2M Service Providers (M2MSPs) or licensees.
Under the framework, an M2M service user or third party must submit a written transfer request to the current service provider or licensee, specifying the SIMs to be transferred and the details of the intended transferee. The transferor is required to issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to the concerned access service provider (ASP) within 15 days of receiving the request, provided there are no outstanding dues.
The transferee must also submit a formal undertaking accepting all responsibilities, liabilities, and obligations — including compliance with KYC and other regulatory norms — for the transferred M2M SIMs. Access service providers will then verify the NOC and undertaking before re-conducting KYC and updating subscriber records to reflect the new ownership.
The guidelines further specify that every M2M SIM must remain mapped to an M2M Service Provider or licensee at all times, ensuring no discontinuation of service to users.
According to the ministry, this framework represents the government’s continued commitment to safeguarding consumer interests while enhancing operational flexibility for service providers. It aims to support the growing ecosystem of M2M and IoT-based services, keeping India’s digital infrastructure reliable, secure, and future-ready.
