With reference to Over-the-Top (OTT) services, consider the following statements:Statement-I: OTT services reduce the need for traditional telecom services like voice calls and texts.Statement-II: OTTs operate on infrastructure built by Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) without contributing to its costs. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Q. With reference to Over-the-Top (OTT) services, consider the following statements::
Statement-I: OTT services reduce the need for traditional telecom services like voice calls and texts.
Statement-II: OTTs operate on infrastructure built by Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) without contributing to its costs.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

[A] Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

[B] Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

[C] Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect

[D] Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

Answer: B

Notes:

Explanation –

Statements 1 and 2 are correct. OTT services reduce the need for traditional telecom services like voice calls and texts. For example, platforms like WhatsApp offer messaging and calls over the internet. OTTs operate on infrastructure built by Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) without contributing to its costs. The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), representing giants like Jio and Airtel, highlights that OTTs don’t contribute to the exchequer or invest in network infrastructure like TSPs do.

Source: ForumIAS

Post-Mains Strategy Session by Mr. Ayush Sinha | ForumIAS