The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is currently contemplating the quantum and floor price for spectrum in the 700 MHz band as it intends to auction these frequency airwaves within next two years. Following the deliberations, DoT will seek the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India?s (TRAI) view on the matter, after approval from the Telecom Commission.
Given the good propagation characteristics of the spectrum in the 700 MHz band, the reserve price is expected to be higher than that of spectrum in the 800 MHz, 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands. However, industry experts reckon that biggest constraint with the 700 MHz spectrum band is lack of ecosystem. They contend that structure of the 700 MHz band in India is different from that in other countries.
The Cellular Operators Association of India has asked the telecom department to provide a road map soon, so that equipment manufacturers and vendors can gear up to develop networks. The association is of the view that with large-scale manufacturing, the industry will have more products at competitive prices.
