The role of diverse institutional agendas in the importation of convergence policy into the Indian communications sector

Abstract

Purpose

The primary purpose of this paper is to explore the importation of the convergence idea into the Indian regulatory and institutional context.

Design/methodology/approach

The objectives of this paper were largely achieved by utilizing textual or policy document analysis. This methodological technique involves an analysis of primary and some secondary sources including: statements from policy makers and direct quotations from policy documents. In theoretical terms, this inquiry is grounded in institutionalism.

Findings

Barriers to achieving real convergence are not merely a function of perceptual flaws in regulatory measures or shortcomings of the industries involved, but are endemic to unrealistic conceptualizations of the phenomenon in the literature.

Research limitations/implications

More quantitative metrics could be added. However, if more quantitative methods are added the paper needs to be re‐written to accommodate them. Also a comparative perspective could be added, but then again the paper would have to be re‐designed.

Practical implications

This paper offers numerous concrete and practical applications for those in government and industry who are struggling with the convergence issue. For policymakers it provides insights for how governments and consultants may impact the progress of convergence. The paper also illustrates structural factors that industry will face in India in rolling out converged or multi‐media services.

Originality/value

Convergence in the Indian case is greatly under researched. While there has been considerable research into regulatory issues of the nation's telecommunications and broadcast industries, few if any studies have addressed convergence among distinct mediated communication forms. Inquiry into role the regulatory role of consultant firms is particularly lacking.

Citation

Menon, S. (2005), "The role of diverse institutional agendas in the importation of convergence policy into the Indian communications sector", info, Vol. 7 No. 4, pp. 30-46. https://doi.org/10.1108/14636690510607286