Delhi, 28 May (H.S.): The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a Consultation Paper regarding the assignment of Microwave Spectrum in various frequency bands, including 6 GHz, 7 GHz, 13 GHz, 15 GHz, 18 GHz, 21 GHz, E-Band, and V-Band. This follows a request from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on August 12, 2022, seeking recommendations on the assignment of spectrum in E&V Bands and Microwave Access (MWA) & Microwave Backbone (MWB) related to these bands. Subsequently, in December 2023, the Telecommunications Act was enacted, prompting TRAI to communicate to DoT on February 20, 2024, regarding the need for a review of the auction and allocation methodologies for spectrum in these bands.
On September 13, 2024, DoT acknowledged TRAI's observations, indicating that backhaul spectrum falls under the administrative assignment method per the Act, and requested TRAI to provide recommendations on demand assessment and assignment methodology, including terms and conditions for the V-Band and E-Band, considering different scopes of service such as Access, Backhaul, or Integrated Access & Backhaul (lAB).
The consultation paper regarding spectrum charges and related terms for assignments in the 6 (lower), 7, 15, 13, 18, and 21 GHz bands for commercial telecom backhaul has been released. It addresses the need to review the 7/15 GHz bands' usage in light of their potential for access through IMT post-WRC-2027. The paper outlines the necessary quantum of spectrum for last mile connectivity via Fixed Wireless Access and details the methodology for assigning spectrum in non-IMT bands. It also discusses spectrum earmarked for backhaul for non-commercial or captive use, inclusive of terms and charges.
Furthermore, it examines the feasibility of allowing low power, indoor, consumer device-to-consumer device usage on a license-exempt basis in the V-band. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide written comments by June 25, 2025, and counter-comments by July 9, 2025. The consultation paper is available on TRAI's website, and submissions should preferably be made electronically. For further information, stakeholders can contact the advisor at TRAI.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
