Jharsuguda, Jan, 12: In collaboration with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), the Consumer Coordination Forum (Board) organized a “Telecom Complaint Redressal and Cybersecurity Awareness Workshop” at Bijnapalli Sthana Mahavidyalaya.
The workshop was inaugurated by Shri Chintamani Pradhan, Sub-Divisional Officer of Brajarajnagar, as the chief guest. The program was presided over by Ramani Ranjan Vishwal, principal of the college, and coordinated by Prakash Chandra Sahu, editor of the Board, TRAI. Kulmani Dalai, Additional Tahsildar of Lakhnapur, attended as a guest and highlighted the importance of e-services and internet in the digital age.
It was noted that cybercrime in India causes an annual loss of approximately Rs 1.2 lakh crore, which is about 0.7–1.1% of the country’s GDP, posing a significant barrier to economic progress. Foreign apps often defraud consumers every minute.
Cyber police officials advised participants to stay alert against unknown links, fake websites, and suspicious messages, and strictly warned not to share OTPs with anyone.
Sudam Dakua, TRAI education officer, provided training on various apps, including DN?D, My Speed Sanchar Sathi, Chakshu App, and the Cyber Helpline number 1930.
During the session, it was highlighted that in remote areas of Jharsuguda, especially Lakhnapur block, telecom services are disrupted in approximately 372 villages. Issues discussed included adjusting validity periods from 30 to 28 days and modifying recharge plans. The complaint process will be made simple and accessible in Odia, and permanent solutions for network issues in rural areas will be implemented.
Prakash Chandra Sahu, TRAI CEG, stated that if any telecom company violates TRAI regulations or neglects customer service, they may face heavy fines and service suspension orders.
Over 100 students participated in the workshop along with officials from BSNL, Airtel, and Jio. Subrata Kumar Badhai, head of the education department, introduced the guests, while Biranchi Pradhan, head of the Odia department, offered thanks.