Summary:
India’s plan to increase the Wi-Fi speeds by dedicating the lower 6 GHz spectrum has been delayed as the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) continues consultations. While technology companies are pushing for full unlicensed access to activate the Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 with speeds up to 9.6 Gbps, telecom operators and satellite players are resisted, quoting 5G/6G needs and interference risk.
The Government’s proposal to open 5925–6425 MHz band for unlicensed Wi-Fi, which aimed to accelerate reasonably high-speed connection. However, telecom operators claim that a significant portion of the 6 GHz spectrum must be reserved for 5G expansion and future 6G rollouts, while ISRO and satellite service providers warn that unlicensed use can interfere with critical satellite operations.
To resolve these conflicts, DoT has established a committee with input from the Department of Space and Industry stakeholders. The delay means that the next generation Wi-Fi devices remain usable in India, limiting digital innovation and global competitiveness. Industry experts emphasize that a balanced spectrum road map is crucial to India to fulfill their digital India and high-speed broadband goals.
The final decision will define whether India prioritizes Wi-Fi-driven mass coupling or the 5G/6G growth telecom, making this spectrum distribution one of the most important political choices for the country’s digital future.
