DoT to ask TRAI to relook if mmWave band to be auctioned

The department of telecommunications (DoT) is likely to send a fresh reference to the sector regulator, asking for a comprehensive roadmap for 27.5-28.5 GHz (28 GHz band) or millimeter wave (mmWave) band spectrum, including views on whether to auction or allocate the band administratively to space broadband companies exclusively.

The department had recently taken out the sale of the 28 GHz frequencies from the upcoming 5G auction. Telcos want the band auctioned while satcom companies say the band should be reserved for them and allocated without auction or administratively.

“The DoT is likely to send a fresh reference to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), asking for a comprehensive roadmap, and principally its views on whether to auction or administratively allocate 28 GHz band spectrum to satellite service providers,” an official who did not want to be named said.

The sector regulator, on its part, had previously called for auctioning mmWave spectrum in the 24.25-28.5 GHz range for 5G services and recommended a base price of ₹7 crore a unit, and suggested that the 27.5-28.5 GHz range be used for both 5G mobile and satellite communications on “a co-existence basis” to ensure efficient use of airwaves.

Access to 27.5-28.5 GHz should be allowed for Earth Stations in Motion (ESIMs) for in-flight and maritime terminals, with appropriate sharing conditions, as in such cases, the operation would be geographically separated from terrestrial international mobile telecommunications, TRAI has said.

“Satellite communication is at a very nascent stage in India and if this industry has to grow, it cannot be compared with the already evolved terrestrial communication,” AK Bhatt, director general of satcom industry body Ispa, said. “In most of the countries, it is allocated by administrative means and not by auction, which is globally harmonised and traditionally recognised.” Pehal News