TRAI to publish a consultation paper for E and V spectrum bands: Report

The DoT has informed TRAI that the businesses may only use the delicensed spectrum to increase indoor coverage. However, aside from that, the firms must purchase the spectrum through the auctions in order to provide any mobility or outside coverage

A consultation paper for the E and V spectrum bands is set to be released by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) asked the regulatory body to make suggestions for the E and V spectrum bands. While TRAI had granted a light-touch licencing regime for the relevant spectrum bands in 2014, circumstances have changed and the telecom operators now require these bands. The 71-76 GHz and 81-86 GHz bands are where the E band spectrum is located, while the 57-64 GHz and 64-71 GHz bands are where the V band spectrum is located.

The regulatory body is getting ready to release a consultation document to determine how the E and V spectrum bands might be used in India most effectively, as stated by an ET article. According to the report, a portion of the V-band spectrum may be delicensed or assigned without holding auctions. This would assist the businesses in enhancing their indoor coverage by employing the V band.

The DoT has informed TRAI that the businesses may only use the delicensed spectrum to increase indoor coverage. However, aside from that, the firms must purchase the spectrum through the auctions in order to provide any mobility or outside coverage. The telecom agency has already recommended a certain V band quantum that can be delicensed for interior coverage, added the report.

The backhaul of the Indian telecom networks can be greatly aided by the use of the E-band spectrum. Back in 2022, the telecom providers had the option of acquiring the E-band administratively through the DoT. However, none of the telcos chose the E-band because, although they would initially receive it administratively, they would later be required to pay the government a fee based on the market. It was a gamble for the telecoms because they didn't know the price.