Network OperatorsTRAI to announce spectrum recommendations by mid-January

TRAI to announce spectrum recommendations by mid-January

TRAI says it will announce its recommendations on spectrum pricing for the upcoming round of auction by mid-January. The authority had recently issued a consultation paper which was concerned with the base cost for all eligible mobile bandwidths.

TRAI Chairman RS Sharma has informed PTI that the government plans to hold an open house discussion on January 4, post which its decision regarding spectrum rates will be announced later in the month. The administration expects to earn revenue of Rs 42865.62 crore from the communication sector for the current financial year.

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This gain includes profits from the sale of airwaves and license fees. There may be a slight hitch in this plan, however, as an official source claims the government might not be able to commence with the spectrum auction in the present fiscal year. There are apparently a number of processes which are yet to be sorted out.

The insider thinks the main push will only begin after TRAI submits its thoughts on the cost. The body is supposedly trying to speed up developments on its end. One such move is the floating of a paper to save time, even though it hasn’t received the Department of Telecom’s inputs regarding spectrum caps.

Also See: COAI raises concern over TRAI paper on spectrum caps

The last date to submit comments was on December 21. Counter comments can be sent to TRAI up till December 28. The regulator is seeking the public’s opinion regarding the valuation of radiowaves in the 700MHz, 800MHz, 900MHz, 1800MHz, 2100MHz, 2300MHz and 2500MHz bands.

The most premium spectrum of the lot is in the 700MHz band, which is yet to be auctioned in India. According to TRAI, it’s vital to deliver cheap broadband in rural areas. The airwaves are apparently 70% more affordable to offer mobile coverage through than 3G services in the 2100MHz band.

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