The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India says that it’s in no position to provide certain recommendations requested for by the Department of Telecommunications until it receives more information on the availability of 3G spectrum. As India gears up for the next auction of its air waves, the reserve price for spectrum in the 2500MHz, 2300MHz and 2100MHz bands has yet to be fixed.
DoT had sought TRAI’s recommendations on the subject almost a week ago, but the latter feels that it needs more data on the 3G, or 2100MHz, band before it can present any viable proposals. It thinks vacant 3G slots can be put up for auction, but does not have proper details on the total availability of 2100MHz spectrum, and hence cannot offer any concrete views on the issue.
The confusion arises from the matter of DoT reportedly having assigned the fifth block of 5MHz spectrum in the 2100MHz band to 5 local service areas, while holding onto the rest for the remaining 17 LSAs. Apparently, the telecom body is currently in discussions with the Defense for the release of one block of 5MHz spectrum. This could mean the previously auctioned block will be made available.
Also see: TRAI asks for 10 percent increase in reserve price in forthcoming spectrum auction
DoT’s revelation may also be hinting at the release of an additional block of air waves in the 5MHz band. TRAI is therefore seeking clarifications on this point in particular. Apart from making the aforementioned observations, the regulatory authority thinks spectrum in the 1800MHz and 900MHz bands should be considered for allotment at an appropriate price too.
Putting 3G spectrum aside, TRAI previously provided recommendations on the reserve price for the 1800MHz and 900MHz bands which will be auctioned off in February 2015, says The Economic Times.