The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has decided not to include the 600 MHz spectrum in the upcoming auction, citing the need for further studies to ensure it doesn’t interfere with satellite operations. This spectrum band was previously offered in the August 2022 auction but saw no takers. Priced at Rs 3,927 crore per unit, it stands as the costliest among the 10 bands up for sale. The DoT aims to conduct the next spectrum auction in March, coinciding with the expiration of permits for Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea (Vi) in certain circles like West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, and Odisha in 2024. However, the auction might not witness robust bidding as current 5G spectrum needs have been adequately met.
All unsold spectrum from the previous auction, excluding the 600 MHz band, will be reintroduced. The 600 MHz spectrum is anticipated to be included in future auctions after additional studies are conducted. During the World Radiocommunications Conference (WRC) in Dubai, concerns were raised about potential interference with satellite operations in neighboring countries if India pursues international mobile telecommunications (IMT) in the 600 MHz band. Despite India’s desire to join countries employing IMT in this band, opposition from China was noted during the conference.
Given the lack of interest in the 600 MHz band in both the previous and upcoming auctions, officials suggest further studies to ensure a clean spectrum for future auctions. During the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (Trai) consultation for the 5G auction in 2022, industry players highlighted the absence of a device ecosystem in the 600 MHz band. Despite this, due to its significant potential to enhance wireless broadband coverage in remote and rural areas, it was recommended for 5G. Bharti Airtel proposed providing the 600 MHz spectrum at no cost to operators with stringent rollout obligations, focusing on economically unviable and uncovered areas. Reliance Jio, the sole bidder for a 10 MHz block in the 700 MHz band during the last 5G spectrum sale, emphasized the importance of the 600 MHz and 700 MHz bands to fulfill the spectrum needs of telecom operators.
