The Digital Communications Commission (DCC) — the highest decision-making body at the Department of Telecom, on Thursday asked the TRAI to reconsider its entire recommendation on the forthcoming spectrum auctions, that includes reserve price and methodology, keeping in view the larger objective of Digital India
“…the members were of the view that TRAI should revisit the entire recommendations in order to see whether they are fully in line with objectives like Digital India, broadband for all and inclusive by 5G… we don't want 5G to be rolled out only for smart cars in smart cities. We want 5G to be rolled out for rural health and rural education,” an official said after the meeting.
The move comes amid industry voicing concerns over high spectrum prices, including that of airwaves used to offer 5G services.
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The official added that given the government’s target of holding the auctions this calendar year, TRAI’s views have been sought within one month after which the DCC will reconvene to look at the revised suggestions.
TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) has been asked to review the recommendations as the total quantum of available spectrum has gone up with the department’s harmonisation efforts as well as a standing committee’s suggestion that administratively allocated spectrum in 2001 should also be put into this auction.
Additionally, with “extreme consolidation” in the industry, the DCC wants TRAI to examine ways to ensure adequate competition. “Also, in the past about 40% of spectrum has been auctioned…this time, the commission members were of the view that ideally all spectrum should be auctioned as it is a valuable resource, and unless it is used, there will be no benefit to society.”
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The official pointed out that the current recommendations do not talk about including the eligibility criteria, methodology of auctions and the method of payment. Hence, TRAI had been asked to give detailed recommendations.
The source said that the committee had accepted the recommendations of the Abhay Karandikar Panel on offering experimental/trial spectrum for 5G.
The government had earlier this month stated its intention of holding trials for 5G in the next 100 days.
“With experimental spectrum, we will also look at promoting innovation, startups, R&D, ecosystem development, etc… and make available experimental spectrum on extremely liberal terms,” the official said.
On Huawei
The government will “very soon” take a final view of participation of controversy-ridden Chinese equipment-maker Huawei in the 5G trials to be held in India.
“…we will be in a position to take a decision shortly. Detailed consultations have been held and we have got the inputs of all the departments. Now, based on that, India will evolve a policy,” a top telecom official said.
The official added that the decision will be taken keeping in view India's capabilities, commercial and strategic requirements. “The idea is that we will not compromise on our security requirements…we will take a considered view based on a number of factors, including the geopolitical considerations, commercial considerations as well as in what manner can Indian standards, Indian IPRs be integrated into 5G going forward.”