The document analyzes Turkmenistan's telecommunications industry. It finds that while the government has made some moves to expand access, state controls still limit development. Mobile penetration reached 88% by 2012, up from 63% in 2010, but the suspension of MTS's license hindered growth. Fixed line penetration remains low at 11%. Internet access is provided by the state-owned monopoly TurkmenTelecom, and broadband access is below 0.03% of the population. Demand appears strong despite high prices and censorship.
The document summarizes ICT development in Laos, including key facts about the country's population and economy. It outlines Laos' national ICT policy goals of increasing access to technology and developing human resources. The national telecom infrastructure and services are described, along with the government's e-government and education initiatives to promote ICT use. Challenges around skills, funding, and standardization are also noted.
The document summarizes ICT development in Laos, including telecommunications policy, regulation, network infrastructure, and frequency spectrum management. Laos' telecommunications sector is regulated by a 2001 law and a new draft law will replace it. Key telecom operators include Lao Telecom, ETL, and Millicom. Mobile subscriptions have grown significantly in recent years. Internet usage is also growing but capacity building efforts are still needed to develop Laos' ICT sector sustainably.
Central Asia's internet infrastructure mirrors that of Africa, with few competitive fiber providers and high connectivity costs away from submarine cable landing stations. Most countries in Central Asia rely on a single dominant state-run telecom for international connectivity, making their internet fragile. Uzbekistan in particular has just one provider, Uzbektelecom, through which all internal and external connections must pass, resulting in some of the highest internet prices globally. Cross-border infrastructure sharing initiatives could help extend affordable connectivity.
The document provides a country profile and overview of telecommunications infrastructure for Lao PDR, describing its capital city, population, telecom operators and network. It discusses the role of the National Authority of Post and Telecommunication in regulating the sector and formulating policy. The document also outlines Lao PDR's approach to developing its ICT sector and expanding access to underserved areas through improved infrastructure, skills, and affordable services.
The document summarizes OTT services in Laos. It provides background on Laos' country profile and telecommunications infrastructure. Mobile internet access has grown significantly, with over 4 million mobile subscriptions and high 3G coverage. Facebook and WhatsApp are the most popular OTT platforms used daily. A survey found that over half of respondents have used OTT for over 3 years on their smartphones. Respondents viewed OTT positively for business, education and democracy, but over 50% agreed some content like pornography should be regulated. The conclusion recommends supporting a free and open internet along with data protection laws and premium internet packages.
This document provides an overview of ICT infrastructure in Laos, as presented by Mr. Phonpasit PHISSAMAY, Director General of the Information Technology Research Institute of the National Authority for Science and Technology in Laos. It describes the national e-government infrastructure, transmission backbone, national internet center, telecom and ISP operators, and challenges connecting Laos to the Trans-Eurasia Information Network (TEIN).
Unleashing infrastructure synergies across sectorsAbu Saeed Khan
Presented it at the "Expert Consultation on the Asian Information Superhighway and Regional Connectivity" during 3 - 4 December 2013, Baku, Azerbaijan. It was organized by ESCAP.
The document summarizes the experience of the Lao PDR in setting up its telecommunications regulatory authority, the National Authority of Post and Telecommunications (NAPT). It provides details on [1] the governance of the telecom sector prior to NAPT, [2] the functions and duties of NAPT, [3] NAPT's ICT policy approach including universal access, licensing and tariffs, and [4] the current structure and market in Lao PDR. It concludes with plans to review the sector and regulatory framework in 2010.
The document summarizes ICT development in Laos, including key facts about the country's population and economy. It outlines Laos' national ICT policy goals of increasing access to technology and developing human resources. The national telecom infrastructure and services are described, along with the government's e-government and education initiatives to promote ICT use. Challenges around skills, funding, and standardization are also noted.
The document summarizes ICT development in Laos, including telecommunications policy, regulation, network infrastructure, and frequency spectrum management. Laos' telecommunications sector is regulated by a 2001 law and a new draft law will replace it. Key telecom operators include Lao Telecom, ETL, and Millicom. Mobile subscriptions have grown significantly in recent years. Internet usage is also growing but capacity building efforts are still needed to develop Laos' ICT sector sustainably.
Central Asia's internet infrastructure mirrors that of Africa, with few competitive fiber providers and high connectivity costs away from submarine cable landing stations. Most countries in Central Asia rely on a single dominant state-run telecom for international connectivity, making their internet fragile. Uzbekistan in particular has just one provider, Uzbektelecom, through which all internal and external connections must pass, resulting in some of the highest internet prices globally. Cross-border infrastructure sharing initiatives could help extend affordable connectivity.
The document provides a country profile and overview of telecommunications infrastructure for Lao PDR, describing its capital city, population, telecom operators and network. It discusses the role of the National Authority of Post and Telecommunication in regulating the sector and formulating policy. The document also outlines Lao PDR's approach to developing its ICT sector and expanding access to underserved areas through improved infrastructure, skills, and affordable services.
The document summarizes OTT services in Laos. It provides background on Laos' country profile and telecommunications infrastructure. Mobile internet access has grown significantly, with over 4 million mobile subscriptions and high 3G coverage. Facebook and WhatsApp are the most popular OTT platforms used daily. A survey found that over half of respondents have used OTT for over 3 years on their smartphones. Respondents viewed OTT positively for business, education and democracy, but over 50% agreed some content like pornography should be regulated. The conclusion recommends supporting a free and open internet along with data protection laws and premium internet packages.
This document provides an overview of ICT infrastructure in Laos, as presented by Mr. Phonpasit PHISSAMAY, Director General of the Information Technology Research Institute of the National Authority for Science and Technology in Laos. It describes the national e-government infrastructure, transmission backbone, national internet center, telecom and ISP operators, and challenges connecting Laos to the Trans-Eurasia Information Network (TEIN).
Unleashing infrastructure synergies across sectorsAbu Saeed Khan
Presented it at the "Expert Consultation on the Asian Information Superhighway and Regional Connectivity" during 3 - 4 December 2013, Baku, Azerbaijan. It was organized by ESCAP.
The document summarizes the experience of the Lao PDR in setting up its telecommunications regulatory authority, the National Authority of Post and Telecommunications (NAPT). It provides details on [1] the governance of the telecom sector prior to NAPT, [2] the functions and duties of NAPT, [3] NAPT's ICT policy approach including universal access, licensing and tariffs, and [4] the current structure and market in Lao PDR. It concludes with plans to review the sector and regulatory framework in 2010.
The document discusses broadband access in Jordan. It provides background on Jordan's geography, history, politics, and telecommunications sector. Jordan has made significant investments in telecom infrastructure over the past few decades. Major players now include Orange, Batelco, Zain, and others offering ADSL, wireless and 3G services. While broadband access has expanded, affordability remains an issue for many Jordanians compared to higher GDP countries like Australia. The telecom regulator aims to promote competition and accessible services.
This document discusses ICT development in Laos. It provides background on Laos' population, GDP, and telecommunication infrastructure. The National Authority of Posts and Telecommunications is responsible for ICT policy and regulation. ICT contributes significantly to GDP growth and is seen as important for achieving development goals. However, Laos still lags behind in telecommunication access compared to other countries.
Thank you for the presentation. ICT development in Laos faces challenges but progress is being made through continued investment, skills transfer, and capacity building.
The telecommunications industry in Russia has undergone significant changes since the 1980s. There were few television channels during the Soviet era, but many new private and state-run radio stations and TV channels have emerged in recent decades. The industry is regulated by laws on communications and mass media. The mobile market has grown rapidly, with over 190% penetration expected by 2017. Growth has been driven by increasing demand for mobile data and infotainment services, as well as a growing economy. However, the government maintains a controlling influence and the regulator depends on government.
The document provides information about the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), including its objectives, mission, sectors, leadership, membership, development activities, and the 2012 World Conference on International Telecommunications (WCIT-12). Some key points:
- ITU is a UN agency that coordinates global use of radio spectrum and satellite orbits and sets standards for telecommunications.
- It has 3 sectors: radiocommunication, standardization, and development.
- WCIT-12 addressed proposed changes to international telecom regulations that concerned some as potentially increasing government control over the internet.
- An amended treaty was signed by 89 countries but not the US and others who support the current multi-stakeholder model
REVIEW AND ANALYSIS ON TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORKS INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE NORTH...IJCSES Journal
The document discusses telecommunication network infrastructure in Nigeria's Northwest province and proposes solutions to optimize it. It finds the region currently has poor infrastructure compared to other areas, with minimum network connection, inadequate power supply, and high costs. The paper analyzes the current 3G network infrastructure, mobile market, and key network providers. It recommends upgrading to 4G to improve data bandwidth, internet penetration, and quality of service in the region.
The document provides an overview of Iran's telecommunication network topology and fiber optic infrastructure:
- Iran's telecom network connects major cities and provinces through transmission lines and exchanges, with fiber optic cables increasingly used for backbone connections between exchanges since 1988.
- The network has expanded to include over 79,000 km of fiber optic cables both nationally and internationally via projects like TAE (Asia-Europe).
- Fiber to the x (FTTx) access networks have been implemented since 2006 to meet customer demands for broadband, with over 500,000 and 270,000 lines installed by Huawei and ZTE respectively.
The document summarizes telecenter development initiatives in Laos, including barriers faced. The first project, E-Way, established an internet access center but struggled with high costs and low participation. A subsequent Rural Telecenters Project set up 10 centers across the country, but faced issues with high internet fees and lack of regular content updates. An e-Health Center Project is currently being implemented to provide healthcare information online. The national e-Government Project aims to computerize government offices and establish online services through a centralized infrastructure network. Overall, ICT development in Laos faces challenges of limited skills, resources, and telecommunications infrastructure.
ICT in the Republic of Yemen still on its first steps and needs a lot to be done, this article talks about the history of the formation of ICT policy and what are the obstacles surrounded the development of ICT in Yemen.
The document outlines Nepal's Information Technology Policy from 2000. The key points are:
1. The policy aims to place Nepal on the global IT map within 5 years and use IT to boost economic development, democracy, equality and living standards.
2. Objectives include making IT accessible to the public, building a knowledge-based society, and establishing knowledge-based industries.
3. Strategies include the government acting as a promoter and regulator of IT, developing infrastructure and human resources, and encouraging private sector investment.
The significance of international backhaul points to ponder by nepalAbu Saeed Khan
A four-day residential course was offered by LIRNEasia, in partnership with Internet Society (ISOC) with the support of the Ford Foundation. It was held at Club Himalaya in Nagorcot during March 28-31. Objective of this course was to enable members of Nepalese civil-society groups (including academics and those from the media) to marshal available research and evidence for effective participation in broadband policy and regulatory processes including interactions with media, thereby facilitating and enriching policy discourse on means of increasing broadband access by the poor. I was one of the faculties of this course and this is what I have presented.
Internet filtering and censorship is common in the Middle East and North Africa region. Governments use a variety of methods to control access including laws restricting media, surveillance of internet cafes, and monitoring of online activity. Internet use is growing due to improving infrastructure and a youthful population, but censorship issues continue as governments block content they deem offensive or threatening and imprison bloggers and journalists. Debate over censorship and online freedoms is ongoing as both advocates and opponents seek to challenge or strengthen controls.
B ii basics-of_satellite_communications_policy_and_regulationFahim Ullah Shagiwal
The document discusses satellite communications policy and regulation. It provides information on the following:
- National regulatory bodies and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) set policies and regulations for satellite communications. The ITU coordinates activities between countries.
- National regulatory agencies (NRAs) in different African countries are responsible for licensing satellite services within their jurisdictions.
- The ITU regulates orbital positions, frequency spectrum allocation, and works to avoid radio interference between satellites. National governments also manage spectrum use within their borders.
Gulf Port Telecom aims to build a subsea cable linking Iraq, UAE, Djibouti, Suez and Palermo to address connectivity needs. The proposed cable would provide a new access path to East Africa and Iraq, as well as redundancy for other networks. The founders plan to streamline construction and sell the business once established to maximize returns.
Stimulating Broadband through
Universal Service
Convergence of Era Broadband training program
2-4 April , 2012
Hyderabad, India
SOLONGO MALTAR
(solongo@ictpa.gov.mn)
Information, Communications Technology and Post Authority
Mongolia
Asia - Fixed Telecommunications InfrastructureReportsnReports
This 252-page report provides an overview of the fixed telecommunications infrastructure in 32 Asian markets. It discusses the national infrastructure of each country, including fixed-line networks, broadband development, and forecasts. It also examines the international infrastructure connecting Asia, including submarine cables, satellite networks, and terrestrial links. The report is available for purchase for $1,500 and the table of contents outlines the major sections covering each country's infrastructure developments.
Turkmen is the official language of Turkmenistan, though Russian is still widely spoken in cities. Turkmenistan has a single-party system led by a president who is both head of state and head of government. Islam is the dominant religion among Turkmen people, while Orthodox Christianity is common among ethnic Russians. The country lies within Central Asia and over 80% of its land is covered by the Karakum Desert. Turkmenistan has significant natural gas and oil reserves and is a net exporter of electricity.
Power point presentation on turkmenistankingramo111
The document discusses very large numerical values, with the first being 21 quadrillion cubic meters which converts to over 7 quadrillion cubic feet. It then mentions 700 million tons.
The Turkish education system is divided into three levels: primary education lasting 4 years, middle school lasting 4 years, and high school lasting 4 years. There are different types of high schools that students can attend, including general high schools, vocational high schools, Anatolian high schools, science high schools, religious high schools, fine arts high schools, and private high schools. After completing high school, students can pursue higher education including associate degrees lasting 2 years, bachelor's degrees lasting 4 years, master's degrees lasting 2 years, and doctorate degrees lasting 3-5 years at universities. Universities in Turkey include both state-run and private foundation universities.
There are three main modes of acquiring culture: imitation through observing and copying family behaviors and examples in one's social environment; indoctrination or formal training which takes place through interactions and formal teaching that incorporates a society's cultural components; and conditioning through a system of rewards and punishments where a culture's norms and beliefs are reinforced by rewarding desirable behaviors and punishing undesirable ones.
This document provides an overview of Turkmenistan with sections on basic information, history, politics, economy, and culture. It notes that Turkmenistan was historically located along the Silk Road and was conquered by various empires throughout its history. In the 20th century, it became part of the Soviet Union before gaining independence in 1991. Today, Turkmenistan has a presidential republic government structure led by President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow. The economy relies heavily on natural gas exports, with China becoming a major buyer. Cultural aspects highlighted include carpets, horses, dresses, and foods. Turkey is also described as one of Turkmenistan's largest trading partners and first to recognize its independence and neutrality.
The document discusses broadband access in Jordan. It provides background on Jordan's geography, history, politics, and telecommunications sector. Jordan has made significant investments in telecom infrastructure over the past few decades. Major players now include Orange, Batelco, Zain, and others offering ADSL, wireless and 3G services. While broadband access has expanded, affordability remains an issue for many Jordanians compared to higher GDP countries like Australia. The telecom regulator aims to promote competition and accessible services.
This document discusses ICT development in Laos. It provides background on Laos' population, GDP, and telecommunication infrastructure. The National Authority of Posts and Telecommunications is responsible for ICT policy and regulation. ICT contributes significantly to GDP growth and is seen as important for achieving development goals. However, Laos still lags behind in telecommunication access compared to other countries.
Thank you for the presentation. ICT development in Laos faces challenges but progress is being made through continued investment, skills transfer, and capacity building.
The telecommunications industry in Russia has undergone significant changes since the 1980s. There were few television channels during the Soviet era, but many new private and state-run radio stations and TV channels have emerged in recent decades. The industry is regulated by laws on communications and mass media. The mobile market has grown rapidly, with over 190% penetration expected by 2017. Growth has been driven by increasing demand for mobile data and infotainment services, as well as a growing economy. However, the government maintains a controlling influence and the regulator depends on government.
The document provides information about the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), including its objectives, mission, sectors, leadership, membership, development activities, and the 2012 World Conference on International Telecommunications (WCIT-12). Some key points:
- ITU is a UN agency that coordinates global use of radio spectrum and satellite orbits and sets standards for telecommunications.
- It has 3 sectors: radiocommunication, standardization, and development.
- WCIT-12 addressed proposed changes to international telecom regulations that concerned some as potentially increasing government control over the internet.
- An amended treaty was signed by 89 countries but not the US and others who support the current multi-stakeholder model
REVIEW AND ANALYSIS ON TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORKS INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE NORTH...IJCSES Journal
The document discusses telecommunication network infrastructure in Nigeria's Northwest province and proposes solutions to optimize it. It finds the region currently has poor infrastructure compared to other areas, with minimum network connection, inadequate power supply, and high costs. The paper analyzes the current 3G network infrastructure, mobile market, and key network providers. It recommends upgrading to 4G to improve data bandwidth, internet penetration, and quality of service in the region.
The document provides an overview of Iran's telecommunication network topology and fiber optic infrastructure:
- Iran's telecom network connects major cities and provinces through transmission lines and exchanges, with fiber optic cables increasingly used for backbone connections between exchanges since 1988.
- The network has expanded to include over 79,000 km of fiber optic cables both nationally and internationally via projects like TAE (Asia-Europe).
- Fiber to the x (FTTx) access networks have been implemented since 2006 to meet customer demands for broadband, with over 500,000 and 270,000 lines installed by Huawei and ZTE respectively.
The document summarizes telecenter development initiatives in Laos, including barriers faced. The first project, E-Way, established an internet access center but struggled with high costs and low participation. A subsequent Rural Telecenters Project set up 10 centers across the country, but faced issues with high internet fees and lack of regular content updates. An e-Health Center Project is currently being implemented to provide healthcare information online. The national e-Government Project aims to computerize government offices and establish online services through a centralized infrastructure network. Overall, ICT development in Laos faces challenges of limited skills, resources, and telecommunications infrastructure.
ICT in the Republic of Yemen still on its first steps and needs a lot to be done, this article talks about the history of the formation of ICT policy and what are the obstacles surrounded the development of ICT in Yemen.
The document outlines Nepal's Information Technology Policy from 2000. The key points are:
1. The policy aims to place Nepal on the global IT map within 5 years and use IT to boost economic development, democracy, equality and living standards.
2. Objectives include making IT accessible to the public, building a knowledge-based society, and establishing knowledge-based industries.
3. Strategies include the government acting as a promoter and regulator of IT, developing infrastructure and human resources, and encouraging private sector investment.
The significance of international backhaul points to ponder by nepalAbu Saeed Khan
A four-day residential course was offered by LIRNEasia, in partnership with Internet Society (ISOC) with the support of the Ford Foundation. It was held at Club Himalaya in Nagorcot during March 28-31. Objective of this course was to enable members of Nepalese civil-society groups (including academics and those from the media) to marshal available research and evidence for effective participation in broadband policy and regulatory processes including interactions with media, thereby facilitating and enriching policy discourse on means of increasing broadband access by the poor. I was one of the faculties of this course and this is what I have presented.
Internet filtering and censorship is common in the Middle East and North Africa region. Governments use a variety of methods to control access including laws restricting media, surveillance of internet cafes, and monitoring of online activity. Internet use is growing due to improving infrastructure and a youthful population, but censorship issues continue as governments block content they deem offensive or threatening and imprison bloggers and journalists. Debate over censorship and online freedoms is ongoing as both advocates and opponents seek to challenge or strengthen controls.
B ii basics-of_satellite_communications_policy_and_regulationFahim Ullah Shagiwal
The document discusses satellite communications policy and regulation. It provides information on the following:
- National regulatory bodies and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) set policies and regulations for satellite communications. The ITU coordinates activities between countries.
- National regulatory agencies (NRAs) in different African countries are responsible for licensing satellite services within their jurisdictions.
- The ITU regulates orbital positions, frequency spectrum allocation, and works to avoid radio interference between satellites. National governments also manage spectrum use within their borders.
Gulf Port Telecom aims to build a subsea cable linking Iraq, UAE, Djibouti, Suez and Palermo to address connectivity needs. The proposed cable would provide a new access path to East Africa and Iraq, as well as redundancy for other networks. The founders plan to streamline construction and sell the business once established to maximize returns.
Stimulating Broadband through
Universal Service
Convergence of Era Broadband training program
2-4 April , 2012
Hyderabad, India
SOLONGO MALTAR
(solongo@ictpa.gov.mn)
Information, Communications Technology and Post Authority
Mongolia
Asia - Fixed Telecommunications InfrastructureReportsnReports
This 252-page report provides an overview of the fixed telecommunications infrastructure in 32 Asian markets. It discusses the national infrastructure of each country, including fixed-line networks, broadband development, and forecasts. It also examines the international infrastructure connecting Asia, including submarine cables, satellite networks, and terrestrial links. The report is available for purchase for $1,500 and the table of contents outlines the major sections covering each country's infrastructure developments.
Turkmen is the official language of Turkmenistan, though Russian is still widely spoken in cities. Turkmenistan has a single-party system led by a president who is both head of state and head of government. Islam is the dominant religion among Turkmen people, while Orthodox Christianity is common among ethnic Russians. The country lies within Central Asia and over 80% of its land is covered by the Karakum Desert. Turkmenistan has significant natural gas and oil reserves and is a net exporter of electricity.
Power point presentation on turkmenistankingramo111
The document discusses very large numerical values, with the first being 21 quadrillion cubic meters which converts to over 7 quadrillion cubic feet. It then mentions 700 million tons.
The Turkish education system is divided into three levels: primary education lasting 4 years, middle school lasting 4 years, and high school lasting 4 years. There are different types of high schools that students can attend, including general high schools, vocational high schools, Anatolian high schools, science high schools, religious high schools, fine arts high schools, and private high schools. After completing high school, students can pursue higher education including associate degrees lasting 2 years, bachelor's degrees lasting 4 years, master's degrees lasting 2 years, and doctorate degrees lasting 3-5 years at universities. Universities in Turkey include both state-run and private foundation universities.
There are three main modes of acquiring culture: imitation through observing and copying family behaviors and examples in one's social environment; indoctrination or formal training which takes place through interactions and formal teaching that incorporates a society's cultural components; and conditioning through a system of rewards and punishments where a culture's norms and beliefs are reinforced by rewarding desirable behaviors and punishing undesirable ones.
This document provides an overview of Turkmenistan with sections on basic information, history, politics, economy, and culture. It notes that Turkmenistan was historically located along the Silk Road and was conquered by various empires throughout its history. In the 20th century, it became part of the Soviet Union before gaining independence in 1991. Today, Turkmenistan has a presidential republic government structure led by President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow. The economy relies heavily on natural gas exports, with China becoming a major buyer. Cultural aspects highlighted include carpets, horses, dresses, and foods. Turkey is also described as one of Turkmenistan's largest trading partners and first to recognize its independence and neutrality.
Turkmenistan is located in Central Asia and is bordered by Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, and Iran. The Turkmenistan flag features five carpets representing the main tribes and green fields. Turkmenistan was once part of the ancient Persian Empire and has artifacts dating back 8,000 years. The culture is unique from other Asian countries and features traditional attire like sheepskin hats. The population is over 5 million people with the capital Ashgabat and main languages being Turkmen and Russian. The climate is continental with warm summers and mild winters.
This document provides an overview of social stratification and inequality. It defines social stratification as the ranking of members in a society into groups based on factors such as occupation, power, education, and economic resources. The key determinants of social stratification are discussed as power, economic resources, prestige, occupation, caste, and education. Characteristics of stratification systems and the three main types - slavery, caste, and class - are also summarized. The document then focuses on social classes in Pakistan and includes descriptions of the upper, middle, and working social classes.
Social stratification presentation (2)Veeshalla100
The document discusses social stratification, which refers to a system of ranking people into hierarchies based on criteria like race, wealth, and gender. It provides examples of social stratification from plantation societies in the Caribbean, where race was a major factor in social status. During slavery, blacks experienced the most dehumanizing treatment and lowest social status, while whites controlled political and economic power. Social stratification continues to influence Caribbean societies today, with non-white populations generally situated at the lower social levels.
This document provides an overview of social stratification and related concepts. It discusses the meaning and types of social stratification including caste system, class system, and race. It then focuses on the Indian caste system, outlining theories about its origin and key features both historically and in modern India. The document also addresses social class and status, social mobility, and how class, caste, and race can influence health and health practices.
This document provides an overview of key concepts related to social stratification and class structure. It discusses several bases for social stratification including wealth, income, social class, ethnicity, gender, religion, and political status. It also distinguishes between open and closed stratification systems. Key thinkers discussed include Karl Marx, Max Weber, and their analysis of class structure. Marx viewed society as divided between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat, while Weber emphasized differences between class, status, and power and identified four main social classes.
Social stratification refers to a society's hierarchical arrangement of individuals and groups according to factors like wealth, income, occupation, education, and social prestige. It involves the classification of people into categories with varying access to resources and power. Major forms of stratification include primitive communalism, slavery, caste systems, and estates. Stratification exists due to various viewpoints including natural inevitability, structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Stratified systems have characteristics like social rankings that can change, life experiences that depend on social category, and slow changing social ranks over time.
The industrialization and information age has made the telecommunication industry expanded into diversified
functionality to support the growth of technological advancement for better services demanded by any
particular nation. In India, telecommunication industry is now considered to be prominent due to its contribution as a tool of
technological support for the national development in line with the national aspirations. These progresses are not a dream
that encapsulates with unreal events and nightmares, but they are the vision that will bring the nation to stand on his or her
feet as tall as the other nations around the world. There is no doubt that telecommunication sector will be expanded farther
and further after the government of Indian has agreed to focus more attention on the Industry. In conclusion, Indian has not
make a mistake when they invest more money in the telecommunication industry that will definitely uplift the nation into a
new culture of civilization in the world and such measures are contributing to another culture of excellent.
Indian telecom industry past, present & futureReeha Paul
The telecom industry in India has grown significantly over the past decades. It started with the introduction of the telegraph in 1850 and has since evolved to include telephony, mobile networks, broadband internet, television and radio broadcasting. The industry was historically state-run but was opened to private players in the 1990s. Today there are numerous private and public operators providing various telecom services across India. However, the industry faces challenges of declining revenues, uneven rural connectivity, and issues around spectrum allocation and management. The government aims to further develop the sector to support India's growing digital economy and connect more of the population by 2020.
The telecom industry in India has grown significantly since market reforms began in 1991. It has expanded from primarily landline services to having over 900 million mobile subscribers as of 2012, accounting for nearly 12% of global users. Key drivers of growth have been low cost mobile phones, rural connectivity initiatives, and value-added services. However, challenges remain such as limited spectrum availability, lack of rural infrastructure, and high taxes. The industry has proven resilient during the global economic slowdown. Moving forward, recommendations include ensuring fair spectrum and access policies, rural infrastructure development, and tax reforms to further strengthen the telecom sector.
South Korea has developed the most advanced ICT infrastructure in the world through significant government investment and support for the ICT sector since the late 1990s. This included establishing policies and organizations to develop IT infrastructure, providing loans and funding broadband expansion nationwide, and educating citizens on internet usage. As a result, South Korea now has the highest broadband penetration globally at 97%, fastest internet speeds, and cheapest access. However, the heavy reliance on advanced internet has also created negative social and economic implications that the government must address going forward.
The document discusses the different technologies used in telecommunication by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL), including manual exchanges, Strowger exchanges, crossbar exchanges, and analog and digital electronic exchanges. It also describes the components of a basic telephone network including exchanges, main distribution frames, line connections, and power plants. The document provides details on the types of cards used in digital exchanges like termination cards, service cards, and control cards.
Highlighted notes while studying the Course:
Advanced Computer Networks
Article: Internet backbone
By: Wikipedia
Wikipedia is a multilingual online encyclopedia created and maintained as an open collaboration project by a community of volunteer editors using a wiki-based editing system. It is the largest and most popular general reference work on the World Wide Web. It is also one of the 15 most popular websites as ranked by Alexa, as of August 2020. It features exclusively free content and has no advertising. It is hosted by the Wikimedia Foundation, an American non-profit organization funded primarily through donations.
The document provides information about the telecom industry of Pakistan. It discusses the history and evolution of the telecom sector in Pakistan from the Pakistan Post and Telegraph (P&T) department established at independence to the modern regulatory authorities and private operators. It summarizes the key milestones like the establishment of Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). It also provides overviews of the major mobile network operators Jazz, Ufone, Telenor and their market shares, services, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
This document provides an introduction to telecommunication systems and standards. It defines telecommunication as the distant connection or transfer of meaningful information from one location to another using high-tech methods like voice, video and data. Telecommunication includes both mechanical and electrical forms of communication. Standards are important for telecommunication networks to achieve interoperability, compatibility and required performance in a cost-effective manner. Many organizations are involved in developing telecommunication standards, including national organizations like ANSI and BSI, regional organizations like ETSI and CEPT, and global organizations like ITU and ISO/IEC. Network operators, equipment manufacturers, service users and academic experts all have interests in the standardization process.
The telecommunications industry in Russia has undergone significant changes since the 1980s. There were few television channels during the Soviet era, but many new private and state-run radio stations and TV channels have emerged in recent decades. The industry is regulated by laws on communications and mass media. The mobile market has grown rapidly, with over 190% penetration expected by 2017. Growth has been driven by increasing demand for mobile data and infotainment services, as well as a growing economy. However, the government maintains a controlling influence and the regulator depends on government.
Mobile number portability (MNP) allows subscribers to change mobile operators while retaining their phone numbers. Turkey implemented MNP in 2008. This led to several effects on the Turkish mobile market:
1. Retail prices initially increased to cover MNP implementation costs but then decreased as competition between operators intensified. Off-net call prices fell substantially after 2008 while on-net prices rose but were affected by promotions.
2. Market shares shifted as over 13 million subscribers ported numbers by 2010, increasing competition. The dominant operator Turkcell's market share declined.
3. Investment and innovation increased as operators competed to attract and retain customers, including launching 3G services in 2009.
The document discusses Uganda's National Information Technology Authority's plans to support high speed internet access and communications infrastructure development. It outlines initiatives like the National Backbone Infrastructure/e-Government Infrastructure Project which aims to connect major towns and government ministries via 1536km of optical fiber cable. This will provide high-speed internet access nationwide and enable e-government services. The project brings benefits like seamless communication, connectivity for schools and hospitals, and supporting business process outsourcing to create jobs. Challenges to fully realizing these initiatives are also acknowledged.
This document describes Nishant Bharti's one month industrial training project at SRM University under the guidance of Professor A.Nithyakalyani from July 1-14, 2015. It includes a bonafide certificate signed by the guide and HOD, an acknowledgment thanking various parties for their support, and a table of contents outlining the technical topics to be discussed including company profile, telephone exchanges, and wireless technologies like GSM and CDMA.
The cable TV industry in India is undergoing a major transition from analog to digital transmission according to new regulations. By 2012, every cable operator must transmit digitized signals, allowing them to offer internet, phone and on-demand services alongside traditional TV. Major cable operators are consolidating through mergers and acquisitions to upgrade networks and compete with DTH and IPTV providers. Digitization requires huge investments but will attract more private equity and transform cable TV into a lucrative triple-play business.
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1. 1
Analysis of the Telecommunications
and Energy industry in Turkmenistan.
Content
Telecommunication Industry
I. Executive Summary………………………………………………………………………………......1
II. Brief Telecommunication History……………………………………………………………….5
III. Turkmenistan Overview……………………………………………………………………………..7
IV. Political Effect…………………………………………………………………………………………….8
V. Mobile Sector…………………………………………………………………………………………..10
VI. Turkmen Netizens……………………………………………………………………………………12
Private Access
Internet Access
Mobile Phones Access
Cyber Space
VII. Institutional Framework…………………………………………………………………………..17
VIII. Regulatory Environment…………………………………………………………………………..18
IX. Ease of Access………………………………………………………………………………………….18
X. Setting Tariffs…………………………………………………………………………………………..18
XI. Competition Safeguards…………………………………………………………………………..20
XII. Operational Conditions…………………………………………………………………………….20
XIII. Universal Service………………………………………………………………………………………20
XIV. Targets…………………………………………………………………………………………………….21
XV. Key Market Indicators………………………………………………………………………………22
XVI. State Control……………………………………………………………………………………………26
XVII. Telecommunications Infrastructure………………………………………………………...27
XVIII. Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………………………….28
XIX. Sources…………………………………………………………………………………………………….29
Energy Industry
I. Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………….30
II. Regulatory Environment…………………………………………………………………………..31
2. 2
Telecommunications Industry Analysis
Executive Summary
Turkmenistan’s telecommunications services are shown to be the least developed
among the former Soviet states.
Poor growth is attributed to the slow development of the private sector and stringent
regulations enacted by the government. However, with the ascent of a new
government, rapid changes have been experienced and leave space for optimism.
The telecommunications industry is dominated by state owned Turkmen Telecom
which is the primary provider of public telephone, email and internet services.
Through a subsidiary (Altyn Ayr) it also operates GSM mobile network competing
against one private operator (MTS Turkmenistan).
Mobile penetration rate in Turkmenistan by 2010, prior to the suspension of MTS’
concession, was slightly above 63%. Despite being one of the smallest and relatively
underdeveloped markets in the region, massive gains were experienced in 2008
where the annual subscription rates grew by 143%. As a result the mobile
penetration jumped from 8% to almost 20% in one year. The growth rate continued
to run at more than 100% in 2009. The latest figures, as of 2012, indicate that mobile
penetration is at approximately 88%.
Fixed line penetration has struggled to break the 10% barrier. However, recent
indications show that in 2012, the penetration rose to 11%.
Email and internet services had been hindered by severe government controls until
2007 when the new government eased some restrictions. Strict controls still remain
3. 3
in place. Access to the internet is provided by the government ISP company
TurkmenTelecom, this was after its forced out four other ISP providers back in the
year 2000 to create a monopoly. This was consistent with the government’s policy
that required tight control over all communications in the country.
Broadband internet access is still very low, at less than 0.03% of the population.
Access to internet services is by 5% of the population, which is roughly about 252,
741 people. However, it is difficult to ascertain the accuracy of the data as official
figures are hard to obtain. Internet cafes (about 20 in total) in the capital charge an
average of $4 per hour.
The ministry of communications signed a contract with TATA communications for
routing traffic through the Transit-Asia-Europe fibre optic channel. TurkmenTelecom
started offering higher speed internet to users in Ashgabat (capital city).
Fixed line services
2011 2012
Total number of
subscribers
520,000 550,000
Annual change 5% 6%
Penetration (population) 10% 11%
Source: BuddeComm
Mobile services
2011 2012
Total number of
subscribers (millions)
3.2 4.5
Annual change 50% 41%
Penetration (population) 63% 88%
Source: BuddeComm
*data may slightly be skewed due to the suspension of MTS Turkmenistan operating
licence.
4. 4
Ps: MTS (the second GSM mobile operator) had been engulfed with problems by the
government who refused to renew its licence for two years (until September 2012)
despite the fact that it had coverage of around 85% of Turkmenistan’s territory.
Television
Turkmenistan currently broadcasts 7 national TV stations through satellite. Analog TV
feed of 5 national channels are receivable over the air across the whole country. In
some places of Ashgabat, cable service is available where satellite dishes are
restricted.
Additional information
The launch of the first Turkmen communication satellite is scheduled for 2014 for a
15 years lifetime.
The ministry of communication organizes an international exhibition, TurkmanTel,
each year for leading companies across the world to exhibit their technologies.
Turkmenistan At a Glance.
*based on Turkmenistan government estimate. www.data.worldbank.org/indicator
5. 5
Brief Telecommunication History
The government took its first steps towards going online in the mid-1990s under
former President Saparmurat Niyazov, when Siemens and Alcatel were invited to
develop the country’s internet. Throughout Niyazov’s reign, the internet existed
mostly for the use of government, academia, foreign diplomats and foreign-owned
businesses. There was little public internet access except at centres sponsored by
foreign aid programs.
In 2000, Niyazov banned the country’s four private ISPs, hence solidifying the
monopoly of state-controlled TurkmenTelekom. In 2002, he banned internet cafes,
after an alleged presidential-assassination attempt.
In 2003 however the government launched a long-term plan for social and economic
development that identified telecommunications infrastructure as a top priority.
Among other goals, the plan called for the addition of 1.8 million phone lines by
2020-the number needed for every household to have a phone. As of 2010, only
some 10% of Turkmen had a basic fixed line phone service, a mere 2% increase since
the plan’s launch.
In 2003, Turkmenistan’s higher education and research sectors (members of TuRENA)
were connected to the NATO funded Virtual Silk Highway via a 708 km stretch of fibre
optic cable and a satellite set up in Ashgabat and linked to Hamburg, Germany. A year
later, the cable was extended to the country’s eastern and western regions,
providing service to major cities such as Turkmenbashi and Balkanabat.
By 2007, Turkmenistan had four international fibre optic lines. These connect to:
Uzbek Telecom in the North, near Dashoguz;
Iran (and farther to Frankfurt via the TransAsia-Europe line) near Ashgabat;
Uzbek Telecom in the east, near Turkmanbat;
Turkmenbashi in the west, which is to be connected to Azerbeijan’s
AzTerraNet via a cable under the Caspian Sea.
6. 6
Source: The central Asian Research and Education Network.
Niyazov also initiated mobile service in the country by granting an exclusive license to
a private provider, US-based Barash Telecommunications (BCT) in 1996. He issued a
second license to state-owned TM Cell (also called Altyn Asyr) in 2004. The following
year, BCT was taken over by a Russian company, Mobile Telesystems (MTS), which
began ambitious expansion of services in Turkmenistan. Over the next six years,
mobile penetration sky-rocketed, almost all of it driven by MTS. In 2011, MTS was
forced to shut down when its license was revoked by the sitting president. In August
2012, the government reversed its orders and MTS resumed service despite losing its
grip as a market leader.
7. 7
Turkmenistan Overview
Turkmenistan is regarded by many human rights groups as one of the most repressive
regimes in the world.
In this closed and tightly controlled environment, the internet presents a novel
problem for the Turkmenistan authorities. While on one hand the government is
keen to promote it; on the other, officials are increasingly weary of its potential as an
outlet for political dissent.
In keeping with this ambivalence the government has taken a two-step forward, one-
step-back approach. It has promised ambitious infrastructure and boldly broadened
access over the past five years. At the same time, state controls continue to deter
users and stymy development.
Due to the lack of publicly available data in Turkmenistan, finding credible
documented information is difficult. This report draws most of its data from other
independent evaluators/researchers, including technical articles, corporate reports
and NGO studies.
8. 8
Political Effect
Upon his election in 2007, President Berdymukhamedov vowed to bring
Turkmenistan’s internet into the 21st century. He has also stated that internet access
is the right of every Turkmen citizen. In fact, many of his policy pronouncements on
telecommunications development give a glimmer of hope to Turkmenistan, at least in
terms of potential internet access.17 And he has taken some bold steps.
In 2009, he launched a new initiative to increase infrastructure capacity: the Central
Asian Research and Education Network (CAREN) project. Funded mostly by the
European Commission’s Europe Aid Cooperation Office (AIDCO), the project replaces
the Virtual Silk Highway, establishing broadband connections for universities and
research institutes via fibre-optic cables linked to GÉANT, the European data
network.20
The government reports that researchers now have much faster internet access than
before. The website of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan claims there are
some 12,000 users on the TuRENA network, which has a download speed of 13 Mbps
– significantly faster than the top speed for ADSL access in Turkmenistan.21
For the general public, however, it is another story. Sources report woefully low
download speeds for all forms of internet access, and the country’s total bandwidth
remains extremely limited. Engineers report that the total bandwidth for
Turkmenistan is 650 Mbps. While this is a huge increase from the country’s 0.26
Mbps in 2000, it is still relatively small compared to that of neighbouring states.
Uzbekistan, for instance, had 1,250 Mbps as of October 2009.
Berdymukhamedov’s other internet-related policy movements – both forward and
back – include:
• lifting the ban on internet cafés (2007);
• permitting home internet connections for private citizens (2008);
9. 9
• hindering the growth of mobile phone service and 3G internet access by
suspending Russian-owned MTS’s licence (2010). At the time, MTS had
about 2.5 million subscribers (about half the population), its services
covered 83% of the country, and it was planning to offer 3G service. By
contrast, state-owned TM Cell had less than half a million customers,
and its coverage was centred on Ashgabat and its surroundings. In
2011, MTS was shut down altogether, leaving TM Cell as the sole mobile
provider, despite its low capacity (see Box 1, p. 5, and Figure 2, p. 6).
MTS has since regained its licence and as of September 2012, it had
reactivated 500,000 subscribers.
• introducing e-government, with plans for some 80 ministries and
government agencies to have their own websites. A new IT-focused
government department was also created (2011);
• signing a resolution to improve TM Cell’s poor service (2012). He also
threatened to sack the Minister of Information and Communications if
the service did not improve.
• vowing to integrate computers into the education system (2011).
Lenovo notebooks worth $26 million U.S. have been reportedly
distributed to 100,000 first graders. (While this move suggests a
commitment to creating Turkmenistan’s first “wired” generation, a lack
of connectivity means that very few classrooms will actually be online);
• supporting the Mejlis’ (parliament’s) efforts to use ICTs to strengthen
institutional capacity, legislative processes, control functions and public
outreach and encouraging the introduction of an electronic voter
registration system by the Central Election Commission and,
• reiterating support for the 2020 strategic plan, which would increase
the fibre-optic network by 2,500 km and connect core urban centres.
The government has made some decidedly internet-friendly gestures in recent years.
Yet Turkmenistan remains a highly restrictive environment for both internet access
and internet content, as the state continues to maintain tight control on both fronts.
10. 10
Mobile Sector
In 2010, Turkmenistan could have revolutionized internet access with a move to fast,
affordable 3G mobile service. But just as this opportunity was announced by the
Russian provider MTS, Turkmen authorities shut it down.
Between 2006 and 2010, Turkmenistan’s mobile service penetration rate skyrocketed
from 4% to some 63%. Mobile’s explosive growth was mostly driven by the Russian
provider MTS. By August 2010, its services covered 83% of the country, with an
estimated 2.5 million subscribers. By contrast, state-owned TM Cell was available
only in major cities, with about 400,000 customers.
In late 2009, TM Cell customers began receiving a very basic 3G service. But service
was poor and unreliable, and uptake was reportedly low.
In 2010, MTS announced plans to offer 3G services.
Given MTS’s extensive capacity, wide coverage and massive customer base, this
move would have created a cheap, fast and nearly nationwide option for internet-
capable mobile service.
However, within weeks of MTS’s announcement, the government suspended its
license. In January 2011, MTS operations were shut down altogether, with authorities
stating its five-year contract had expired.
TM Cell was left as the sole mobile service provider in the country, despite its
extremely limited range and low capacity. The company struggled to absorb MTS’s
customer base. In fact, demand was so high that officials reportedly suspended the
distribution of SIM cards temporarily in April 2011, with the exception of cards for
public officials and foreigners.
In a move designed to address the lack of wireless capacity, the Ministry of
Communications signed contracts with Huawei and Nokia Siemens in April 2011 to
upgrade and expand TM Cell’s mobile network. By August 2012 the government had
once more changed course. MTS’s licence was restored, and within a month it had
reactivated over 500,000 user accounts.
11. 11
*No data are available publicly on how many mobile customers have internet access.
Estimates for this report suggest a rate of about 14% of the population, with 6%
having 3G service.
Turkmenistan’s Mobile Monopoly game.
Source: Paul Budde Communication Pty. Ltd.
12. 12
Turkmen Netizens
Official government statistics show only 2.2% of the Turkmen population online. But
this number probably does not include mobile internet access. A field source with
knowledge of the area estimates mobile internet users to number some 700,000 with
300,000 of those using 3G services, using this figures it therefore means that 14% of
the population has mobile access.
There are clear signs that demand for internet access is robust. By 2010, there were
more than 20 times as many internet users as 2000(based on the low official
statistics), and the rapid increase in the number of mobile subscribers is particularly
striking, with growth rates exceeding 200% in some years.
Surprisingly, the government was once forced to call the military to quell popular
unrest in larger cities over a lack of new mobile subscriptions after MTS shut down.
Public internet centres sponsored by foreign governments and organizations report
string demand. These centres offer fast and powerful satellite connections and
services for which users-researchers, government employees, state journalists, and
the regular public-are willing to wait in line.
By way of example the Information Research Centre (IRC) at the U.S Embassy in
Ashgabat reported users queuing for 30 minutes or more just to use their terminals.
Their monthly usage rose 50% between 2007 and 2008.
Overall, indications suggest there is a burgeoning potential market of users who are
poised to go online as soon as access and service improve in Turkmenistan.
The major stumbling block is the TurkmenTelekom monopoly, which sits at the
strangled heart of Turkmenistan’s slow, expensive, censored and surveyed internet.
The government maintains direct control over the company. The director of
TurkmanTelekom reports directly to the Cabinet, bypassing the Ministry of
13. 13
Communications, which is normally in charge of ISP, as well as other related
industries, such as radio and television.
Lack of competition has led to astronomically high prices for some services.
Private Access.
The government began allowing private internet access in 2008, but uptake has been
slow. Satisfactory connections are rare outside the country’s capital, highly expensive
as well as slow, and require a tedious registration process.
Connectivity is virtually non-existent beyond Ashgabat and some major towns. This is
a major obstacle, given that 50% of the population lives in rural areas.
ADSL internet access costs a staggering $7,000 U>S per month for the highest speed.
Even at the slowest speed, an ADSL connection with no limits on traffic cost more
than half of the average income.
Hardware is also expensive. A basic desktop computer costs a the equivalent of two
month salary for the average Turkmen citizen.
Downloads speeds are extremely slow, estimated at 72 Kbps. By comparison,
neighbouring Afghanistan’s average speed is 150 kbps-more than twice as fast.
Acquiring access is also an administrative nightmare that can take several months.
Users must register their passports with TurkmenTelekom, agree to refrain from a
wide range of online activities, such as accessing websites containing untrue or
defamatory information, and even promise not to use foul language. A signature
from the local police station is required.
Internet Cafes.
Re-opened in 2007, state-run internet cafes offer higher speeds than most people can
afford through home access. The difference is relative, of course. Hourly rates are
also less expensive than monthly home-access plans, estimated at $ 1 U.S to $ 3 U.S
an hour, although this is still a significant sum for the average citizen.
14. 14
By 2012, there were 15 state-run internet cafes in the whole country, all of the major
cities. State surveillance makes people wary of using cafes. Customers must show
their passports or other identification and fill out a questionnaire giving personal data
and explaining why they want to use the internet.
In 2008, observers noted that most cafes had very few users. An exception seemed to
be in two particular locations-one in Ashgabat and another in Mary City. The reason
for the higher traffic in these locations remains unexplained.
Mobile Phones access.
Mobile access is a key avenue for internet use in Turkmenistan, including access via
mobile devices connected to laptops. Engineers report that TM cell leases a 300Mb/s
channel from TurkmenTelekom to provide internet access via smartphones.
Dramatically cheaper than fixed lines, mobile phones are used by some 63% of the
population, and the addition of internet access is relatively inexpensive. Estimations
put it at 14% the number of Turkmen that accesses the internet via mobile service.
6% access using 3G services ( which should provide full internet access in theory but
falls far short of this in reality).
Smart phones are expensive, but most remain more affordable than personal
computers. Nokia models that cost from $ 180 U.S to $ 240 U.S are the most
common. Mobiles running using the android platform are also becoming increasingly
popular. Sought-after models include the Samsung Galaxy, Sony Ericsson Xperia, and
various HTC phones.
Most mobile subscribers make full use of 2G services such as messaging: people often
exchange their mail.ru usernames rather than phone numbers, according to a
prominent blogger.
Cyberspace.
With most citizens using the internet primarily as a recreational tool, social networks,
forums, and chat sites such as odnoklassniki.ru, vkontakte.ru, and rambler.ru, are
15. 15
overwhelmingly popular (although it is worth noting that these are all monitored by
Russian security services).
Data compiled by Google insights on the most popular searches originating from
Turkmenistan also reflect a primarily social orientation, as well as a keen interest in
mobile services.
Chat forums are particularly popular. Teswirler.com was reportedly one of the most
popular Turkmen language websites, but was shut down permanently in July 2011. It
has been replaced by ertir.com. Many citizens also use talypar.com, a popular
discussion forum hosted in the U.S that was originally designed for students. These
chat forums are also routinely accessed from mobile phones.
Popular search engines include Google, Bing, Yandex poisk, mail.ru poisk and
Brothersoft (a software and freeware download website.)
Blogging is discouraged, but not illegal. Political blogs are effectively non-existent.
Instead, blogs function as a format for sharing information and knowledge about
relatively innocuous topics, including technology, new companies, and saving money.
However, the most important sources of information is not the internet but
television, through local, Russian or Turkish channels. Print media, while cheap, only
contains information from state agencies; subscription are compulsory for
government employees.
Monthly Cost of ADSL internet access.
17. 17
Institutional Framework
The ministry of communication controls eight state enterprises in the post and
telecommunication sectors. They are;
Turkmen Telecom ( fixed operator)
Ashgabat City Network
Altyn Asyr (GSM)
TV Radio/ TV Broadcasting
Spectron Administration
Turkmenistan post
Special Delivery Service
Training Centre
Under the 2000 Law on Communications, the Ministry defines sector policy, regulates
co-operation between operators, issues licenses, manages the spectrum, sets tariffs
and carries out investigations to check that operators conform to all laws and
regulations. The Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers (equivalent to deputy
prime minister) is ultimately responsible for the communications sector, with the
Minister of Communications reports to him. The President and the Cabinet of
Ministers defines policy for the sector and the Ministry is tasked with implementing
this policy. Under the 2000 Law on Communications, the Ministry provides proposals
for the development of the sector, and is the regulatory body that regulates the co-
operation between operators. It also receives applications for licenses and issues
licenses (“Law on Regulation of Licenses”), carries out spectrum management (“Law
on Frequency Management”), establishes tariffs caps for residential line rentals and
local calls.
(Source: EBRD Communications Sector Assessment 2008 Page 4)
The law of telecommunications, passed in 1996, created the Ministry of
Communication to oversee and issue licences for telecommunications services.
The ministry was later expanded and named the Ministry of Information and
Communication (MIC). The MIC is both the regulator and policy maker for the
telecommunications sector.
18. 18
Regulatory Environment
The ministry and the regulator are the same body. The general director of Turkmen
Telecom reports to the cabinet of Ministers, as does the Minister of Communications.
There is a general acceptance of allowing alternative operators into the market. It is
worth noting that political interference is inevitable. In Turkmenistan there exists
only one internet licence, and given that the role of tariff regulation by the cabinet,
he close examination by the ministry of commercial factors before issuing licences,
suggests that there is heavy government direction of the market.
While many countries have legislation that requires fair and non-discriminatory
procedures, they are not evident in Turkmenistan. Likewise, the practice of publishing
the radio frequency plan on a website while it’s now a normal practice, it isn’t the
case in Turkmenistan yet.
Ease of Access
Given the strong influence of government with regards to market activities, the
process of licence of market application to market operation is also handled by the
government and not an independent body.
The fees for operating license are extremely low. The licenses are also fixed across all
sectors of the Ministry of Economy. The licenses are valid for three years renewable.
There are 32 different types of licenses in the communication sector. The license
application consists of a two page form and 10 defined documents attached. The
ministry then proceeds to submit them to a commission (representatives from the
eight state bodies); here each member gives their opinion concerning the application.
There are no exclusive rights explicitly defined.
19. 19
Any operator is theoretically allowed to offer internet services provided that they
have a license, but at present there is only one license holder, Turkmen Telecom.
Foreign companies are not allowed to own land, instead they are required to lease a
building. Typical premises that foreign companies are allowed belong to the
government and the procedure necessary to lease the building can at times be
lengthy and tedious.
Also worth noting is, there exists and Inter-Agency Commission on Radio Frequencies.
It takes account of all sectors, broadcasting, telecommunication and military.
However, the regulations published are sector specific.
Setting tariffs
Despite the fact that the Ministry of Communication has enormous market
power/control, they are by law required to invite other specialist from other
ministries to discussions before making regulatory decisions. They may also invite
private operators, however in most cases the ministry of justice represents their
interests.
Tariffs are set by the operator themselves. However, before a license is issued, the
ministry examines tariff proposals to ascertain that certain tariff limits are not
violated.
If a private operator wishes to change retail tariff in the course of his business, they
are required to consult the ministry before implementing these changes.
20. 20
Competition safeguards
There exists no competitive safeguards that are in existence. The main regulatory
device is investigation which is a defined obligation of the ministry. The ministry
issues an order to carry out a commission. An inspection commission is formed and
invites competent state officials to carry out the inspections.
The inspections can cover technicality, quality, accounting and legal issues. The
accounting issues include, tariffs, customer contracts, costs and profits, to see if they
exceed predefined state norms.
Operational conditions
The introduction of competitive safeguards such as carrier selection and pre-selection
and number portability is lacking in Turkmenistan at the moment. However, the
government has established some kind of reference interconnection offer as a basis
for interconnection agreements.
Universal Service
Turkmenistan does not have explicit universal service obligations or obligations that
involve new entrants in the market.
21. 21
Targets
The market is governed by the government’s medium term plan. Communication
sector plans are inclusive.
The president of Turkmenistan had publicly stated a goal of 1 million internet users
and 1 million mobile subscribers by the end of 2008, then 2 million internet users and
3 million mobile users by the end of 2009. The government is also believed to be
toying with the idea for the inclusion of a third mobile license so as to enhance the
development of the mobile market. Additional development in the areas includes the
installation of fibre optic cables throughout the country.
Tariff rebalancing has been discussed but resolution of the issue is outstanding. Since
then however, there has been a higher pace of development. The only service that
has been provided to customers is now 50 kbps dial-up, by Turkmen telecom, though
leased lines are provided to business customers for higher capacity internet access.
Permission has now been given for broadband national WiMax frequencies.
26. 26
State Control
Turkmenistan’s authoritarian regime exerts aggressive controls over the digital
content available to its citizens.
Turkmen citizens are relatively unsophisticated in evading government censure. Few
know how to use circumvention tools, and self-censorship is common.
The regime uses a range of control tactics: centralized media control, content-
blocking, surveillance, and severe penalties.
Centralized Media Control
State owned TurkmenTelkom holds a monopoly on all forms of internet access, from
mobile phones to fixed line connections. All internet channels pass through a central
hub under government control, which enables both censorship and surveillance.
As noted earlier, the general director of TurkmenTelekom reports directly to the
cabinet. The government also controls all media outlets, including nominally
independent outfits. Foreign stations are accessible only to a handful of people with
satellite dishes or shortwave radio.
Content blocking
Little is known about the mechanisms by which the Turkmen government
implements internet censorship. There are no public records or official documents
that describe who is tasked with deciding what to filter, nor is there a record of the
process according to which sites are blocked. Available information is patchy at best.
Censorship is centralized. There is no publicly disclosed list of blocked sites in
Turkmenistan.
Censorship practices may be difficult to scale as they require specific approvals from
a very limited number of officials.
27. 27
The available evidence suggests that the system is simple and relies on a predefined
block lists. TurkmenTelekom possesses deep packet inspection technology that can
be used to filter at the keyword level.
Severe penalties
Under article 132 and 133 of the country’s Criminal Code, Turkmen who libel or insult
government representatives may face fines, forced labour or up to one year in prison.
Insulting the president may result in a five-year prison term.
Telecommunications infrastructure
Turkmenistan has experienced a number of problems relating to communications
technology.
Despite recent efforts to upgrade the country’s telecom infrastructure, the telephone
network remained poorly developed and many villages have been left without
telephone services.
There has been a minimal increase in the number of main telephone lines over the
last decade; consequently fixed-line teledensity has really only marginally increased
over the last 20 years.
Turkmenistan also launched a limited coverage 3G network in 2010.
In the meantime, Turkmenistan said its working on a project designed to introduce
mobile voice services to currently unserved and inaccessible settlements in the east
of the country.
The operator said it aimed to use a combination of alternative energy sources for the
project to enable those in the Koyetendag district of to access voice services.
Alternative power sources being tested include wind turbines, solar modules and
batteries. If the testing proves successful, MTS said it would look at replicating the
installations in other rural and remote areas.
28. 28
Turkmenistan’s fibre-optic links to the global internet.
Source: The central Asian Research and Education Network.
Conclusion
The telecommunication sector is still relatively young and has enormous potential to
succeed. The main impediment has been the strict control enacted by the
government. However, the current government led by President Gurbanguli
Berdymukhamedov, has shown commitments to reforms and welcoming foreign
investors. With cheap energy readily available, drastic improvement of infrastructure
is conceivable as modern forms (including software) of communication slowly make
their way into the sector.
Despite these assurances, it doesn’t match the reality on the ground. Maintaining a
tight control over the internet remains a key priority. The regime is extremely aware
of the potential of the internet as a vector for dissent, and for potentially exposing its
secretive practices to unwelcome international scrutiny.
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The state’s method of monitoring and surveillance are basic; however, citizens’
knowledge of alternative such as circumvention tools is likewise minimal. For the
most part, netizens censor themselves, and avoid looking for trouble.
Economic analysts have praised Turkmenistan for weathering the global recession
better than any other country in the region, and this success has been reflected in the
continued robust progress in telecommunications market penetration.
The other element that makes Turkmenistan’s telecom growth impressive is the low-
level of telecommunication infrastructure on which the growth has rode on.
Fortunately, the current president has realized the importance of this industry and
has approved massive and rapid investments in it.
In conclusion, Turkmenistan remains in a kind of online limbo, torn between the
benefits of joining the wired world and the risks of losing control over information
and communication within its borders.
SOURCES
This report was prepared thanks to a multitude of contributors whom we’ve quoted
extensively and relied on their anonymous sources for some of the data presented
herein.
They include and not limited to: The SecDev group, Freedom House, OpenNet
Initiative, World Bank, United Nations, ITU, BBC monitoring, IDC, Paul Budde
Communication, Economist Intelligence Unit, U.S embassy Ashgabat, TuRENA, EBRD
Further reading and comparison to the region and Europe can be recommended in a
report by the EBRD titled Comparative Assessment of the Telecommunication Sector
in the Transition Countries. Assessment Report Turkmenistan. December 2008.
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Energy industry analysis
Introduction.
Natural gas production is the most dynamic and promising sector of Turkmenistan’s
economy.
The country is ranked among the top six countries in the world with the largest
natural gas reserves and 20th
in terms of gas production. It is ranked 97th
in the world
on the basis of its GDP, which is approximately $33.68 billion.
Turkmenistan has several of the world’s largest gas fields, including 10 with over
3.5Tcf of reserves located primarily in the Amu Darya basin in the southeast, and the
South Caspian basin in the west.
Extensive hydrocarbon/natural gas reserves, which have yet to be fully exploited,
have begun to transform the country. Recent major discoveries at South Yolatan in
the prolific eastern part of the country are expected to add to the current proven
reserve amounts.
Gas production increased rapidly between 1998 and 2008, when it reached 71billion
cubic metres. In 2009 it dropped by 45% to 39bcm due to the global recession and
the fall of international gas demand.
In 2012, foreign investment was more diversified, with 57% on the energy sector
(90% in 2011) and 27% in the chemical sector, with the rest going to the
transportation sector.
According to the World Bank, foreign direct investment was $1.4 billion in 2009, up
65% from 2008 and country officials anticipate higher investment in the future.
As a result, Turkmenistan is a net exporter of electrical power to central Asian
republics and its southern neighbours. The Hindukush Hydroelectric Station has a
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capacity of 350 megawatts, and the Mary thermoelectric power station has a rated
capacity of 1370 megawatts, just to mention a few.
Until 2010, two thirds of Turkmenistan’s gas went through Russian state owned
Gazprom, with recent developments, new gas export pipelines that carry Turkmen
gas to China and to Northern Iran began operation.
According to a decree by the People’s council (parliament) in August 2003, electricity,
natural gas would be subsidized for citizens up to the year 2030.
Regulatory environment.
The Turkmenistan natural gas Company (Turkmengaz) under the auspices of the
Ministry of Oil and Gas controls gas extraction in the country.
Seeking to attract more foreign investment and diversify its export routes, the
Turkmen government began reforming the country’s energy sector and regulatory
environment. In March 2007, the government established a hydrocarbon regulatory
authority, State Agency on management and Use of hydrocarbon Resources, to issue
licences and contracts for oil and gas development and provide greater revenue
transparency.
In 2008, Turkmenistan also passed a Hydrocarbon Law to provide greater legal
transparency in ownership of oil and gas projects.