TRAI Expands mmWave Spectrum for Enhanced 5G Connectivity

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has recommended the auction of nearly 3000 MHz of millimeter wave spectrum for 5G services, valued at Rs 17,940 crore, with a reserve price of Rs 5.98 crore per MHz. This spectrum, which is 14% cheaper than the 26 GHz band auctioned in 2022, is seen as having a better ecosystem, particularly in the 37-40 GHz bands, where 5G services have already been rolled out in the US. TRAI has also proposed that mobile operators, internet service providers, and M2M service providers should be allowed to participate in the upcoming auction. The Department of Telecommunications will decide when to conduct the next auction.

While TRAI has suggested pricing for the 37-40 GHz bands, it has advised the DoT to delay the auction for the 42.5-43.5 GHz band due to the lack of a device ecosystem. The spectrum in the 37-40 GHz band should be auctioned in 100 MHz blocks, with a 20-year validity period and a 40% spectrum cap for each telecom operator. TRAI has also recommended that the roll-out obligations for the n260 band should mirror those of the 26 GHz band and apply equally to both existing and new telecom service providers. Successful bidders would have two payment options: an upfront payment or 20 equal installments.