Meaning of a third party
A third party is a person or organisation that is not one of the amateur operators conducting the radio contact. Passing a message for another person can be treated as third-party traffic.
Normal rule
Routine third-party messages are not a normal purpose of the amateur service. Amateur radio is intended for self-training, intercommunication and technical investigations by authorised amateurs.
International rule
ITU Radio Regulation 25.3 allows international communications on behalf of third parties only in emergencies or disaster relief. The national administration decides how this provision applies to stations under its control.
Indian disaster provision
Annexure A of the 2024 Indian Rules provides a limited exception. If normal telecommunication facilities fail, an ASOC holder may be permitted by the Central or State Government to handle third-party messages relating to natural or man-made calamities. The message must originate from and be addressed to a competent civil authority, such as a District Magistrate, Deputy Commissioner, Collector or an officer authorised by them.
Do not assume automatic permission
A disaster does not automatically remove every operating restriction. Follow the directions of the competent authority and the current DoT/WPC rules. Use the amateur station only within the permission and purpose given.
Emergency readiness
Operators can prepare by keeping equipment reliable, batteries charged, antennas ready and contact information available. They can practise message handling and coordination before an emergency occurs.
Message accuracy
Emergency messages should be brief, factual and clear. Record the time, origin, destination and content as required. Ask for confirmation when a message contains critical details.
Priority and discipline
When emergency traffic is in progress, avoid unnecessary calls and transmissions. Give the frequency to the station handling the emergency. Do not create confusion by sending unverified reports.