What is DLT and Why It Matters ?
Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) is a blockchain-based regulatory framework mandated by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to govern all commercial SMS communications. Implemented to combat spam, protect consumer privacy, and ensure transparency, DLT requires every business sending bulk SMS to register their message templates, sender IDs, and customer consents on a centralized platform.
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Consumer Protection
Prevents unwanted spam and ensures customers only receive authorized messages from registered entities.
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Legal Compliance
Prevents unwanted spam and ensures customers only receive authorized messages from registered entities.
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Complete Transparency
Every SMS is traceable back to its source, creating accountability across the entire communication chain.
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Delivery Assurance
Properly configured DLT parameters ensure high delivery rates and protect your sender reputation.
The DLT Parameters
Header ID or SENDER ID
Also known as Sender ID, a Header ID is the 6-character alphanumeric identifier (e.g., "TXTMSG", "AMAZON") that appears as the sender of your SMS. It's your brand's identity in every message sent to customers.
Key Features:
• 6 characters (letters & numbers only)
• Instantly recognizable brand identity
• Must be registered per message category
• Syncs across all telecom operators
How DLT Parameters Work Together
The four DLT parameters ( Header , Templates, PE-TM Chain, Consent ) must be properly configured and linked for successful SMS delivery. Here's how they interconnect in the DLT ecosystem:
1. Register Header
Create your brand identity with a 6-character Sender ID
2. Approve Templates
Define message formats for each communication type
3. Link PE-TM Chain
Authorize your SMS provider to use your templates
💡 Critical Integration Point:Your SMS service provider (Telemarketer) can only send messages using your Header IDs and Templates after the PE-TM chain is established. Think of it as giving your provider the "keys" to use your approved communication assets. Without this chain, the system blocks all messages—even if everything else is configured correctly.
4. Register Consent
Upload customer permissions for promotional messages
Why Each DLT Parameter is Critical ?
Parameter | Purpose | Impact if Missing | Approval Time |
|---|---|---|---|
PE-TM Chain | Authorizes provider to send on your behalf | Complete delivery failure even with all other approvals | Immediate |
Consent Template | Captures customer permission legally | Promotional/Service Explicit SMS blocked; legal penalties possible | 24-48 hours |
Template ID | Defines approved message content | All SMS blocked—no template means no message delivery | 24-72 hours |
Header ID | Brand identification on every SMS | Messages delivered without sender identity or blocked completely | 24-72 hours |
⚠️ Compliance Warning
All four parameters are interconnected and mandatory. Missing or misconfiguring even one component will result in complete SMS delivery failure. Additionally, attempting to send promotional messages without registered consent can lead to header suspension, financial penalties up to ₹50 lakh, and legal action under TRAI regulations.
The DLT Parameters- FAQ
Q1: What is a message template in DLT?
A message template is a pre-approved SMS content structure that includes fixed and variable text, used for sending bulk or transactional messages under TRAI regulations.
Q2: How do I add a new template in DLT?
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Log in to your DLT platform (e.g., Jio, Airtel, Vodafone-Idea).
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Navigate to the Content Template section.
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Choose the appropriate template type: Promotional, Service Implicit, Service Explicit, or Transactional.
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Fill in required details and submit for approval.
Q3: How long does it take to get template approval?
Generally, it takes 24–72 hours, but may vary by TSP and workload.
Q4: What are common reasons for template rejection?
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Use of promotional language in service templates
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Grammar/spelling errors
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Missing brand name
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Inclusion of special characters like "<" or ">" (not allowed in some categories)
Q5: Can I edit an approved template?
No. You must create a new template with changes and submit it for approval.
Q6: What is a Header ID?
A Header ID (also called Sender ID) is the 6-character alphanumeric name that appears as the sender of an SMS (e.g., “TXTSMS”).
Q7: How to add a new Header ID?
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Log in to your DLT account.
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Go to SMS Header > Header Registration.
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Choose the type of communication (Transactional/Promotional/Service).
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Enter the required name and details and submit.
Q8: Can I register the same Header across all TSPs?
Yes. Once approved by one operator, it gets synced across others.
Q9: Is there a limit to the number of headers I can register?
There’s no official cap, but operators recommend not exceeding 20 headers per Principal Entity for manageability.
Q10: Can I surrender or delete a Header?
Yes. You can surrender it from the Header Summary section in the portal.
Q11: What is the PE-TM Chain?
It is the linking of a Principal Entity (PE) with a registered Telemarketer (TM) on the DLT platform, allowing the TM to send messages on the PE’s behalf.
Q12: Why is PE-TM linking required?
Without this chain, your TM cannot use your approved headers or templates to send SMS. It ensures compliance and accountability under TRAI rules.
Q13: How to add a Telemarketer under a PE?
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Log into the PE account.
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Go to Telemarketer Mapping or Manage Telemarketer.
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Enter the TM ID (provided by your SMS service provider).
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Set the scope and submit.
Q14: Can a PE add multiple Telemarketers?
Yes. A PE can map multiple TMs as long as each has a valid DLT registration.
Q15: What if the PE-TM chain is not created?
SMS campaigns will fail to deliver even if headers and templates are approved. The chain is mandatory.
Q16: What is a Consent Template in DLT?
A Consent Template is a predefined message format used by a Principal Entity (PE) to collect customer consent for receiving promotional or service explicit messages. It must clearly explain the purpose and scope of the communication and must be approved on the DLT portal before use.
Q17: Why is the DLT Consent Register important?
The DLT Consent Register is a centralized database where customer consents are recorded and stored securely. As per TRAI regulations, sending Service Explicit or Promotional messages is not allowed without valid consent uploaded and approved via the DLT system.
Q18: How do I register a Consent Template on the DLT platform?
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Log in to your DLT portal account.
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Navigate to the Consent Template section.
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Click “Add New Consent Template”.
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Enter the brand name and consent description (e.g., “I agree to receive offers and updates from XYZ Ltd.”).
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Submit for approval.
Q19: How do I upload customer consents to the DLT Consent Register?
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After your Consent Template is approved, download the CSV format from the portal.
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Add customer details (mobile numbers and consent date) in the specified format.
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Upload the file under the Consent Upload section.
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The system will validate and approve consents after processing.
Q20: Is customer consent mandatory for all message types?
No. Consent is only mandatory for:
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Promotional Messages
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Service Explicit Messages
It is not required for:
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Transactional Messages
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Service Implicit Messages
However, having a consent trail is still a best practice for transparency and compliance.
🔄 The Complete Configuration Cycle
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Business Registration: Register your company as a Principal Entity (PE) on the DLT portal
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Header Creation: Apply for and receive approval for your Sender ID(s)
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Template Development: Create and submit message templates matching your campaign needs
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Provider Authorization: Establish